Acoustic Americana Music Guide, Dec 4 through 7 ~ WEEKEND UPDATE

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Tied to the Tracks
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE & NEWS
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DECEMBER 4 through 7, 2009 ~ WEEKEND UPDATE
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This weekend is plumb full.
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Your editor is honored, once again, to be the emcee of the annual CHRISTMAS CONCERT at the Autry Museum, Sunday afternoon, 2-5 pm. It features TOP stars of the Western music world and it’s always a fine show with a superb line-up. (See the Guide’s listing.)
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Of course, there’s a whole lot more happening! Check our helpful “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks to humbly assist you. Plus, you’ll find info on radio shows that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere). And you’ll find our UPDATED “Heads-Up for advance tickets” listings.
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It’s all here for you, at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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Here’s a bit of EVENT NEWS (one item, repeated from the Dec 1 edition):
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Part 2 of ENJOY LIVE MUSIC WHILE YOU BUY YOUR HOLIDAY JUNK (ER, GIFTS)
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Back to solving The Age-Old Dilemma. They’re a couple. She’s addicted to recreational shopping, and he’d rather have a root canal than be dragged along. The Guide offers a solution. Beginning this weekend, there are events where merchants offer music and other pleasant amenities to lure shoppers. We told you last ish about the Thanksgiving weekend events in Old Pasadena and now, more of the same happens for one night in Santa Monica, with similar one-night events the same day in Claremont and in Venice. See the times and dates in the Guide for complete listings, and here’s what to look for.
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Friday, Dec 4, is the annual “MONTANA AVENUE HOLIDAY WALK” from 7th-17th St, along Montana Av, in Santa Monica, 5-9 pm; it’s a big deal on the West side.
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On Friday, Dec 4, there’s more:
“FREE FRIDAYS” (every Fri) at the LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART in Long Beach, 11 am-5 pm, gives you a chance to shop at the museum store and enjoy the exhibits;
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and, the “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” offers a four-block street fair in old downtown Monrovia, every Fri, 5:30-10 pm, always with live acoustic music in several places ~ free parking, free event.
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and, on Fri, Dec 4 (first Fri, every month) is the “ART WALK” in Claremont, with live music, 5:30-9 pm.
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and, on Fri, Dec 4 (first Fri, every month) is the “FIRST FRIDAYS ON ABBOT KINNEY ART WALK” with art and music all the boulevard in Venice, 7 pm.
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Other recurring events that offer similar possibilities are
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Every Wednesday, there’s the weekly “WINE & SONG” series hosted by award-winning songwriter BRAD COLERICK always with great musical guests, at WineStyles in South Pasadena, 7-9 pm; you can buy bottles of wine there while you hear the music. A bit earlier and farther east, every Wed is the “CLAREMONT WEDNESDAY GREEN MARKET” featuring live acoustic music inside and outside the Packing House in Claremont, from 5-8 pm. There are these and, no doubt, similar events elsewhere for the next few weeks. As we learn of more shopping-with-escape-hatch events with live acoustic music, we’ll let you know.
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Thursday, Dec 3, is “SAN PEDRO’S FIRST THURSDAY ARTWALK,” this month with a holiday theme, 6-9 pm. A bit later on Thu, Dec 3, is the “PRE HOLIDAY WINE TASTING” at Café Cordiale in Sherman Oaks, beginning at 8 pm.
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Beyond that? Well, there’s that always-wonderful holiday gift idea: give a fine CD to your music loving friends!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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It’s DECEMBER,
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…and WINTER arrives on the 21st. (As if you can tell the difference in Southern California.)
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The name of the last month of the year comes from the Latin word, decem, which means tenth. December was the tenth month of the ancient Roman calendar.
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Christmas is celebrated in most of the Christian world on December 25, though there is no credible evidence that Jesus was born then, or even born in the winter. December 25th was designated as Christmas Day by the Roman Emperor Constantine, to rob the thunder from the largest competing “new” religion, Mithraism, and its holiday, the Day of the Feast of Mithra. That tactic would become for the next thousand years, as the Catholic Church spread Christianity throughout Europe by co-opting various pagan holidays and re-designating them as the special days of various Catholic Saints. While all the history is fascinating, there’s no reason not to share and enjoy the central message of Christmas ~ peace on earth, good will to all people.
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December’s Poem-of-the-month:
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Merry Christmas

We was whistlin', we was singin' on a winter afternoon;
The hobble chains and fryin' pans was jinglin' to the tune.
Fer we knew the day was Christmas and the line camp was in sight,
No, it wasn't much to look at but it suited us all right.

We onpacked and we onsaddled, then we turned our hosses out;
We cooked lots of beef and biscuits and we made the coffee stout.
We et all we could swaller, then we set and took a smoke,
And we shore did work our memory out to find a bran new joke.

No, it wasn't like the Christmas like the folks have nowadays—
They are livin' more in comfort, and they've sorter changed their ways—
But I sorter wish, old pardner, we could brush the years away,
And be jest as young and happy, as we was that Christmas Day.

- Bruce Kiskaddon, 1933
(and if you enjoyed that, get acquainted with www.cowboypoetry.com)
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Now, on to the ACOUSTIC MUSIC LISTINGS in the Guide…
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4
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Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks (chronologically, by start time):
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5-10 pm 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” opens tonight in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. Event runs Dec 4-Dec 30, 5-10 pm (Light Display Hours); Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
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5-9 pm Annual “MONTANA AVENUE HOLIDAY WALK” from 7th-17th St, along Montana Av, in Santa Monica.
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8 pm BOB MALONE opens for ROBBEN FORD at Brixton South Bay in Redondo Beach.
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8 pm PETER CASE (the PLIMSOULS) performs at McCabe's in Santa Monica.
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8 pm KEN O’MALLEY'S "SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS" at the Fox Event Center in Redlands.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Fri, Dec 4, in San Diego:
7:30 pm TOM RUSSELL plays the Acoustic Music San Diego series at 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; 619-303-8176; www.AcousticMusicSanDiego.com. (He’ll be in L.A., too.) More at www.tomrussell.com
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Fri, Dec 4, in Seattle:
8 pm “THE CUTTERS & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS CONCERT” is a sea chanteys holiday celebration at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Seattle. More info, contact Alice at 206-448-0707 or walice1@qwest.net
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Fri-Sun, Dec 4-6, in Texas:
“CHRISTMAS AT OLD FORT CONCHO” at Fort Concho Nat’l Historic Landmark, 630 S Oakes St, San Angelo, TX; 325-481-2646 or 325-657-4441; www.fortconcho.com. It’s Fort Concho's largest annual event, as the forty acres and twenty-four buildings at the landmark are filled with entertainment, food and beverage, shopping, displays, living history, period entertainment, children's workshops, and special events. Over 1000 volunteers make this annual event the traditional start of the holiday season in San Angelo and West Texas. Also ongoing that weekend are the opening ceremonies for the “Concho Christmas Lights Celebration,” special exhibits at the nearby San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts and San Angelo Railway Museum, plus evening shopping and programs with the downtown merchants.
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Each day at Fort Concho, visitors can experience the Winter Rendezvous, campsites with hundreds of re-enactors and period traders who bring the 1800s alive with music, drills, and numerous displays. Inside the fort's many original buildings merchants and artisans from across Texas and the Southwest offer many items to start your Christmas shopping. A Food Court offers options. Strolling musicians and staged musical activity keep the grounds lively, and the children's areas provide many crafts and activities free for all youngsters. During daylight hours, the many troops on the Parade Field drill, ride, and shoot their weapons, along with the artillery demonstrations (blanks-of course). Grounds admissions: $5 adults; $3 srs; $2 children age 6-12. Event runs Fri, 3-9 pm; Sat, 10 am-8 pm; Sun, 11 am-5 pm.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
Morning show (after 8:30 am) HEATHER LOCKIE & FRIENDS bring violin, cello, clarinet, and voices to Stories, 1716 Sunset Bl, Echo Park 90026; 213-413-3733. Venue is in the Jul ’09 ish of Sunset magazine (p.22). Summer afternoon or summer evening you can enjoy the back patio with an iced Americano, peppermint green iced tea, freshly-baked root beer flavored cookie, or an assortment of popsicles, ice cream bars and other frozen treats.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
11 am-5 pm “FREE FRIDAYS” at the LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART , 2300 E Ocean Bl, Long Beach 90803; 562-439-2119; www.lbma.org. The museum is atop a hill overlooking Long Beach harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The grounds include the Miller Education Center in the Elizabeth Milbank Anderson house and carriage house built in 1912, a new pavilion with two floors of expansive gallery space for changing exhibitions, museum store, Masterson Atrium, and oceanfront gardens. There are extensive educational programs for children and adults plus changing exhibitions that include festivals, music programs, and special events. Current programs at www.lbma.org/exhibits.html. Museum admission is free every Friday, with support form the L.A. County Arts Commission (www.lacountyarts.org); all other days, admission is $7 adults, $6 students & srs over age 62 (current I.D. required); always free for mbrs and children under age 12.
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Dec 4–Dec 30; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
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Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
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Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
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Fri, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5-9 pm annual “MONTANA AVENUE HOLIDAY WALK” is Santa Monica’s “much-anticipated evening of complimentary Holiday treats and festive family fun,” a stroll amongst twinkly holiday lights along ten blocks of boutiques, from 7th-17th St, along Montana Av, in Santa Monica. Info, www.MontanaAve.com. You can taste food from the award winning restaurants, visit with Santa Claus, and enjoy live music. The Montana Avenue merchants share cookies, warm cider and tasty treats. Free.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri, on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
5:30-10 pm “MONROVIA FAMILY FESTIVAL” along Myrtle Av, in old downtown Monrovia. It’s year-round and weekly, a street festival and farmers market, that’s been running 17 years. KATTYWOMPUS STRING BAND plays 8-10 pm at 412 S Myrtle Av; contact Jennifer Ranger, 877-365-5744. RON ELY does authentic and original maritime songs most weeks, usually at Myrtle Av & Colorado or Myrtle Av and Lemon Av, on the North end of the festival. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely. There’s lots of other music throughout old town Monrovia, several acoustic performers each week – singer-songwriters, duos or bands – plus specialty vendors, lots of food, and local merchants. Event is large during the summer when it includes a carnival (rock climbing wall, balloon man, bubble man, petting zoo, pony rides, etc.) It scales-down from 4 blocks to 2 blocks during winter months, following the Christmas holidays. Myrtle Av exit, N of 210 Fwy, free parking, free event.
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Fri, Dec 4; first Fri, every month:
5:30-9 pm “ART WALK” in Claremont, with live music, including RON ELY performing sea chanteys and classic and original folk music; event runs between Yale & Harvard on 2nd St, in Claremont, 91711. Art Displays, unique shops, numerous restaurants, and live music on the sidewalks. (NE of Los Angeles off the CA-210 freeway.) Ron Ely performs at Bert & Rocky’s at Yale Av & Bonita. Other musicians all along the way.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam-out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, Dec 4, first Fri, every month:
6:30-10 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” is a featured act / OPEN MIC monthly event at the The Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Includes music and raffles of merchandise from indie artists and sponsors, including massage, life coaching, and acting coaches. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. Javelyn holds a companion event every 3rd Sat at another venue, at 8 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com. $2 cover.
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Fri, Dec 4, first Fri, every month:
7 pm “FIRST FRIDAYS ON ABBOT KINNEY ART WALK” with art and music all the boulevard, including Altered Space Gallery, 1221 Abbot Kinney Bl, Venice 90291; 310-452-8121; www.alteredspacegallery.com. Free.
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Fri, Dec 4, 1st & 3rd Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Fri, Dec 4, every 1st & 3rd Fri, in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri
7-9:30 pm ROB KLOPFENSTEIN “& guests joining him at the piano,” at the Whale and Ale, 327 W 7th St, San Pedro; 310-832-0363; www.whaleandale.com. No cover charge for bar or dinner patrons.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri, in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Fri, Dec 4, every 1st & 3rd Fri, in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Fri, Dec 4:
7:30 pm “STELLALUNA” presented by “Tears of Joy Theater” at Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz, at Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A. 90064; 310-286-0553; www.theatreraymondkabbaz.com. It’s the enchanting story of a baby fruit bat who falls into a bird's nest, and tries to adapt to her new home but finds herself the odd one out, hanging by her feet and disgusted by those bugs Mother Bird brings home to dinner. What a relief when she finally discovers she is a bat! Save up to 25% with a subscription to the winter’s programs at the Théâtre.
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Fri, Dec 4, first Fri, every month:
7:30-10 pm “SCOTT AND MELANIE BOMAR'S FIRST FRIDAY” show with different performing guests each month, at The Spot Cafe & Lounge, 4455 Overland Av, Culver City 90230; 310-559-8868. Scott & Melanie tell us, “There is no charge for the show but please support The Spot Cafe & Lounge with food and drink purchases. We like to help businesses that support independent music! Please carefully read the parking restriction signs in the neighborhood as some are hard to read and parking enforcement is aggressive in the area.” More at www.TheBomars.com and www.MelanieBomar.com and www.ScottBBomar.com. No cover.
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Fri, Dec 4, first Fri, every month:
7:30 pm “SONGSALIVE! FIRST FRIDAYS LOS ANGELES SHOWCASE” at Cahuenga General Store (aka Hallenbecks), 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; www.MySpace.com/CahuengaGeneralStore; 818-985-5916. Featuring talented songwriters from around the globe, and held around the globe, Songsalive! Showcases are a cozy, intimate and acoustic environment where media and music industry representatives often drop-by to check-out the latest talent. Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches & salads. Info on sponsoring organization at www.songsalive.org/losangeles. $8 cover at the door.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
7:30 pm “OPEN MIC” at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica; 310-315-0056; www.unurban.com
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Fri, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BOB MALONE opens for ROBBEN FORD at Brixton South Bay, 100 W Torrance Bl Suite J, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-406-1931; www.brixtonsouthbay.com and www.myspace.com/brixtonsouthbay. Venue is 21+, holds 450. The wonderful and constantly touring piano-vocalist Bob Malone tells us, “I've still got a few discount tickets, email me att bob@bobmalone.com and I'll hook you up!”
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ROBBEN FORD is one of the premiere electric guitarists today, particularly known for his blues playing as well as his ability to be comfortable in a variety of musical contexts. A four-time Grammy nominee, he has played with artists as diverse as Joni Mitchell, Jimmy Witherspoon, Miles Davis, George Harrison, Phil Lesh, Bonnie Raitt, Claus Ogerman, Michael McDonald, and many, many others. Doors at 7 pm; Show at 8 pm. Venue is 21+. Tix $20 advance, $23 door (unless you get ‘em from Bob Malone).
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Fri, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm PETER CASE (the PLIMSOULS) performs at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. Peter Case is a legendary musician and songwriter who has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” It’s wonderful to see him back in action after his emergency heart surgery. More at www.petercase.com. Tix, $20, and this will likely sell-out.
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Fri, Dec 4:
8 pm “A NIGHT WITH THE TIKI BAR ALLSTARS - SAN DIEGO STYLE 2009” with JOE RATHBURN, JERRY GONTANG, GARY SEILER & ROB MEHL, at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Show info, http://tikibarallstars.homestead.com
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It’s “a night of 6-string Trop-rock music on a Panamanian coffee wharf.” Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award recipient Bob Stane asks, “What would happen if you invited four very popular San Diego area trop-rock band leader / songwriter / performers, who are old friends, to put together a super-group to play your wedding? The result would be The Tiki Bar Allstars. That's exactly how they came to be. They had so much fun playing that wedding together, and were so well received, they decided to approach the San Diego Parrot Head Club to book them at their mega fundraiser anniversary event. The results were magical and they've already been invited back again in 2010.”
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Bob continues, “Now, imagine you, and them, with nothing but their acoustic guitars and their voices, are stranded on a coffee wharf in Panama because your cruise ship is in dry dock for repairs. You're sitting around on some crates and whatever chairs you can find with a tropical breeze comin' in off the Caribbean and these guys just start singing whatever comes to mind to pass the time. That's what's going to happen here tonight. The friendship, the camaraderie, the common love of the trop-rock sound, the laughter, the spontaneity, you'll not find that in a show anywhere else. Though they'd never been on stage all together before that wedding, they are all old friends and have a rapport with each other that matches what each has with his audience. Their common affinity for the music of Jimmy Buffett, Harry Belafonte, The Kingston Trio, Bob Marley, the Hawaiian Islands, the Caribbean, and good old American country and rock & roll, infuses their own songs with that unique blend sounds and style that says kick back and enjoy life.
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“The Coffee Gallery Backstage performance space being what it is, a stage set designed by a Disney artist to look like the above mentioned coffee wharf or dock at the jungle's edge, makes it the perfect setting for this one-of-a-kind event. Put on your tropical camp shirt, your flip-flops, your shorts and straw hat and come on down for a tropical shindig to remember.” Tix, $20.
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Fri, Dec 4, in Redlands; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm KEN O’MALLEY'S "SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS" at the beautiful Fox Event Center, 123 Cajon St, Redlands. You’ve heard his authentic and original Irish music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where his album, “Omaille” had its world premiere en-route to global airplay. "O'Malley, from Dublin, is a rare talent." — Sean Canniffe, The Irish Herald, San Francisco. "The star is O'Malley's voice . . . which effortlessly spans the range from sentimental ballads to aggressive Irish folk, rock and everywhere in between." — Dave Soyars, The Irish Herald. "Dust-free and polished to perfection, each song is performed with authenticity, and the care one might use when handling a valuable family heirloom" — Lisa Elaine Scott, Music Connection Magazine. Tickets are $15 online at www.kenomalley.tix.com or by email to twlord@sbcglobal.net. or by phone at 310-203-1386.
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Fri, Dec 4:
8 pm “RATED RSO: THE MUSIC + LYRICS OF RYAN SCOTT OLIVER” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; www.bostoncourt.org; 626-683-6883. MEGAN HILTY of Broadway's “9 to 5” fame, and 2009 Olivier Award Winner LESLI MARGHERITA join multi-award winning composer and lyricist RYAN SCOTT OLIVER to bring sexy school teachers, provocative rent-boys, obsessive homicidal teenagers, and fairy dust to this production, which runs only 3 shows. Fri, Dec 4 at 8 pm, & Sat, Dec 5 at 4 pm & 8 pm. Tix on sale now.
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Fri, Dec 4, first Fri, every month:
8-10 pm monthly “FIRST FRIDAY” show, with different recording artist guests each month, hosted by SEVERIN BROWNE at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; live simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. The series features performing guests (one or more recording artists) and the “First Friday Band,” with SEVERIN BROWNE, MIKE BISCH, DAVID STONE, JEFF KOSSACK, AARON WOLFSON, ALEX DEL ZOPPO and GARY POPENOE. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Venue serves ale & sandwiches. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” More at www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry,” at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am. Advance tix, reservations, recommended (club is now only holding tables only until 8:30 pm).
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri, in Temecula:
8 pm “LIVE AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Series info and schedules at www.LiveattheMerc.com or 951-491-9053. Tix at www.temeculatheater.org. Every Friday, it’s “exclusive, intimate performances from the best bands - in Temecula's best club space,” known as "The Merc," in a series presented by Full Value Entertainment. One of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings, it now serves as a performance venue that hosts music four days each week. Doors at 7:30 pm for the best seats. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Fri, Dec 4
9 pm JESSICA CATRON (from VOCO) is part of a big lineup tonight at Pehrspace www.pehrspace.org. Also performing is Build (from Brooklyn), Missincinatti (Jessica’s band), Common Eider, King Eider (from Oakland), and Efft (from Oakland). We don’t anything about the other acts, but we know that Jessica is wonderful. $5 cover.
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Fri, Dec 4, every Fri:
9 pm GREG SMITH plays his birthday party show for listening & dancing at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; 818-341-0166; www.cowboypalace.com. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Fri, Dec 4:
9:30 pm-12:45 am ORQUESTA CHARANGOA at El Floridita, 1253 N Vine St, Hollywood 90038; dinner reservations, 323-871-8612. Venue serves Cuban cuisine and it’s a “Hollywood Hotspot.” Yamaha artist Fay Roberts has been keeping the Cuban tradition alive for more than a decade in L.A. After traveling to Cuba where she studied traditional Charanga music with Richard Egues, of Orquesta Aragon fame, Fay returned to Los Angeles and founded Orquesta Charangoa. They've been bringing joyous sounds ever since. Lead Vocals by Timba recording artist Gonzalo "Chalo"Chomat. More at www.charangoa.com - music downloads at www.CDBaby.com/cd/charangoa
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5
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Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks (chronologically, by start times):
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Noon-4 pm BILL TAPIA plays his 102nd birthday show (Yes, that IS correct, the man is 101, nearly 102, the oldest living musician in the US, and he played with John Phillip Souza(!), Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, Fats Waller and Louis Armstrong) at Steven’s Steakhouse in Commerce. It’s a show with LOTS of food and music from Bill, one of the world’s ukulele masters.
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5 pm Annual “PARADE OF LIGHTS & WINTER FESTIVAL” in Norco, where western music star DAVE STAMEY & wife Melissa are the Grand Marshals.
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6-10 pm NATHAN McEUEN BAND with Scott Gates and Chuck Hailes, play a FREE show at DownTown Disney in Anaheim
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7 pm THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS plus JOYCE WOODSON at The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena
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8 pm TOM RUSSELL plays McCabe's in Santa Monica.
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8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND QUARTET, plus the CELTIC GOLD ACADEMY DANCERS opening, at The Grand Annex in San Pedro.
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8 pm BRUCE MOLSKY plays the FolkWorks Concert Series at First Presbyterian Church in Santa Monica.
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8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7 play Boulevard Music in Culver City.
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8 pm Inaugural show of the new “WEST VALLEY ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES” in West Hills, with DAVE MORRISON, PAUL ZOLLO, & JEFF GOLD.

9 pm THE PRESTON SMITH SHOW at The Sugarmill Saloon in Tarzana.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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Local Festivals:
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Sat & Sun, Dec 5 & 6:
Noon (all day) “FESTIVAL NAVIDENO DE LA CALLE 8 (Ocho)” is a Latino Christmas Festival on 8th Street (Calle Ocho), 8th St & Normandie Av, in Koreatown district, Los Angeles. Attendees will enjoy live musical groups, arts & crafts, foods & beverages, commercial products, carnival rides & games, services and products provided by community & small business, free health screenings, marketing & promotions from all type of exhibitors. More than 75,000 Latinos and Koreans from the surrounded communities usually attend this free Street Fair in a fraternal environment, bringing their children to receive 25,000 free toys and to celebrate the Christmas holidays. Thousand of free samples of a variety of products are usually given in this 8 blocks event. More at www.calleochola.com. Free.
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Sat, Dec 5; Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
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Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
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Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Sat, Dec 5, in Poway (San Diego area):
7 pm TRAILS & RAILS play the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series at Templars Hall in Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-566-4040; www.sdfolkheritage.org
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Sat, Dec 5, in Joshua Tree:
CANCELLED: 7 pm KEN O’MALLEY'S "SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS" at the The Joshua Tree Celebration Center. It’s a dinner concert including Ken's Christmas show for $45. Info & reservations, call Steve Brear at 760-902 9366 or email steve@signagraphic.com.
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You’ve heard his authentic and original Irish music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where his album, “Omaille” had its world premiere en-route to global airplay. "O'Malley, from Dublin, is a rare talent." — Sean Canniffe, The Irish Herald, San Francisco. "The star is O'Malley's voice . . . which effortlessly spans the range from sentimental ballads to aggressive Irish folk, rock and everywhere in between." — Dave Soyars, The Irish Herald. "Dust-free and polished to perfection, each song is performed with authenticity, and the care one might use when handling a valuable family heirloom" — Lisa Elaine Scott, Music Connection Magazine. Tickets are $45 for this dinner-and-a-show night.
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Sat, Dec 5, in Olympia, WA:
6 pm VINCE BROWN and THE GRETA JANE QUARTET perform at “Stonewall Youth's 6th annual Winter Gayla” at the Eagle’s Ballroom in Olympia. Formal dress is encouraged. Ticket price includes dinner, drinks, and entertainment. Food is proudly catered by MIJAS (Mujeres Improving Job Abilities and Skills); a new transitional restaurant conceived by a group of Latina women supporting women in crisis of domestic violence. The festivities begin at 6 pm. Tix at www.BuyOlympia.com - info at http://stonewallyouth.org. More at www.vincebrownmusic.com.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sat, Dec 5, on broadcast & web radio:
6-8 am “ALIVE & PICKING” hosted by MARY KATHERINE ALDIN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, worldwide at www.kpfk.com. As you may know, we do not usually list radio shows UNLESS they feature live acoustic performances. This show does not. But L.A. remains the least diverse radio market in the US (even though it’s the largest US radio market), so any show that spins folk-Americana CDs in this town is cause for celebration. And, KPFK has vacillated on whether or not Mary Katherine’s show will be aired regularly, or at all. Please take note, and let KPFK hear your preferences.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
8-10:30 am FREE ACOUSTIC CONCERT at Strings Music Store, 146 N Glendora Av, Ste 101, Glendora 91741; 626-914 4100. Sometimes featuring VIN FIZ FLYER. Another in a series of MORNING concerts. Free entertainment, tips only, in a great place, with nice people and good music. Vin Fiz Flyer tells us, “Old town Glendora is a kinda sleepy small Midwest town plopped into Southern California. These early morning concerts sound like a wacky idea, but they’re well-attended by musicians as well as music lovers! A car club meets at the Cafe next door every Saturday for breakfast, and they park their assorted ‘babies’ out front for you to peruse too. Come on by and start your weekend out right.” Check with venue to see if there is a concert scheduled for today.
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Sat, Dec 5, recurring:
8:30 am DARK & STORMY BAND (with the Hinkley Soaring duo of PETE KALMUS & SHARON KUNDE) bring their catchy songs and voices to the Pasadena Farmer's Market. More at http://myspace.com/petekalmus.
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Pete was among the winners in mandolin at this year’s Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest. He says, “There's no way I'm getting out and playing music 8:30 am every Saturday.” So check Pete’s myspace page to see if they’ll be there. Sharon plays flute. Free.
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Sat & Sun, Dec 5 & 6, and Sat & Sun, Dec 12 & 13:
10 am-6 pm “MAGIC MOUNTAIN ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE & FREE PARK ADMISSION” at Magic Mountain, 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia 91355. Entry to Magic Mountain is FREE on Dec 5, 6, 12 & 13 if you bring a new and unwrapped toy valued at $15 or more. Make sure to include the price tag or receipt. Your donation will be distributed by local charities to kids in need during the holidays. The donation is tax-deductible, your good deed helps a child in need, and in return, you get free admission to the amusement park.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS:”
Reservations and payment required by 5 pm on Dec 4… (we told you)
11 am-1 pm monthly “LOS ANGELES WOMEN IN MUSIC (LAWIM) WORKSHOP SERIES” brings DON GRIERSON to the Musicians Institute, 1655 N McCadden Pl, Hollywood 90028. Event info, 213-243-6440 or www.lawim.com. LAWIM tells us, “If you are looking to make your mark and grab a piece of the 40 billion dollar a year music business, Don Grierson offers a world of wisdom and practical information on how to make an impact in today's modern music industry. Learn about the bigger picture, the processes and system filters, and A&R today vs. yesterday, as he guides you through the giant maze and teaches you how to get people to listen!”
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DON GRIERSON is a legendary A&R executive who has worked with many of the most notable artists in modern music history. As a promotion person for Capitol Records he was involved with the launch of Apple Records and The Beatles. Don also worked in international, marketing and advertising for Capitol. He then became a founding member and VP, A&R, for EMI America Records, signing and working with acts such as Sheena Easton, Kim Carnes, Kate Bush, Sir Cliff Richard, J. Geils Band, and Kenny Rogers. This was followed by a very successful stint as VP, A&R back at Capitol where he signed and helped guide a number of hit-making acts, including Heart, Joe Cocker, Steve Vai, Megadeth, George Clinton, Tina Turner, Bob Seger, Duran Duran, Thomas Dolby, Billy Squier, and others. Later he became Sr. VP, Head of A&R at Sony/Epic Records working with such acts as Cheap Trick, Celine Dion, Bad English, Gloria Estefan, Cyndi Lauper, The Jacksons and Living Colour. Don currently operates his own independent consultant company as well as being a faculty member at Musicians Institute in Hollywood. More at www.dongrierson.com.
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Limited seating. Reservations and payment required by 5 pm, Dec 4. $15 LAWIM mbrs, $25 non-mbrs.
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Sat, Dec 5, repeats every Sat:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Sat, Dec 5:
Noon-4 pm BILL TAPIA plays his 102nd birthday show (Yes, that IS correct, the man is 102, the oldest living musician in the US, and he played with John Phillip Souza(!), Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, Fats Waller and Louis Armstrong) ~ at Steven’s Steakhouse, 5332 E Stevens Pl, Commerce 90040. It’s a show with LOTS of food and music from Bill, one of the world’s ukulele masters. Presented by Paniolo Productions.
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Great Hawaiian performers along with master jazz musicians will join Bill on stage while you feast on ono Polynesian food. Expect the unexpected!! It will be an afternoon that you will remember! At 101, ukulele master Bill Tapia is the oldest working musician in the United States, if not the world. Born in Hawaii to Portuguese parents, he can recall playing "Stars and Stripes Forever" for American doughboys heading off to World War I in 1918. His longevity is amazing, but what's most impressive is the way he distills nearly a century of musical experience on the bandstand, delivering graceful, harmonically sophisticated renditions of jazz standards and Hawaiian swing on the diminutive four-string uke. While he's only gained fame late in life, he spent much of his career in the company of musical royalty as an ace accompanist to stars like Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, Fats Waller and Louis Armstrong.
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Tables of 10 may be reserved, contact Pat Enos at 800-416-8838. Ticket price of $48 includes seating, entertainment and “ono Polynesian food.”
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on web radio:
Noon-1 pm “UNSIGNED MUSIC SHOW” on WPMD with TEE-M and MIKE STARK is “a genre-busting show, where the UNsigned Revolution is on.” On the web at http://wpmd.org. Mike and TEE-M spin CDs 11 am-noon “from cutting-edge indie artists and bands,” (acoustic and electric) then welcome guests at noon, usually for all-acoustic live performances. The show rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on web radio:
1-3 pm “CONTINENTAL DRIFT” Celtic and British Isle folk show, on KUSP in Santa Cruz, includes live performance-interviews with host CINDY ODOM on her long-running show. From the highlands of Scotland to the midlands of England and beyond, it’s traditional and contemporary music from Ireland and the other British Isles, with Celtic lore and Celtic-influenced folk and ethnic music from Europe and North America. Info, playlists, and web simulcast at www.kusp.org.
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Sat, Dec 5, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
1:30 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, in Temecula:
2:30 pm “GOSPEL AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday afternoon, it’s “a variety show and features traditional, contemporary and jazz influenced Gospel music. Each week will showcase different soloists and Gospel mime dancers,” in a series presented by Lillian Crawford. Series info, www.americantowns.com/ca/temecula/events/gospel-at-the-merc-2009-07-18
One of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings, The Merc now serves as a performance venue that hosts music four days each week. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “MY KIND OF BLUES” web radio show crafted and hosted by renowned blues man BERNIE PEARL, every Sat on www.wpmd.org. The show often has Bernie reminiscing about the blues greats with whom he has performed, and features thematic sets with “behind the music” -style tales of the songs and the artists. More at www.berniepearl.com - www.myspace.com/berniepearl
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
3-4 pm “THIS AMERICAN LIFE” hosted by veteran NPR producer Ira Glass is a weekly public radio program broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show “pushes the envelope of radio performance with a show that's part journalism, part arts, and entirely compelling and unique.” The show has a chosen theme each week, for which Glass does a story or two, and he invites a variety of writers and performers to take a whack at the theme. The result is stories, monologues, short radio plays, miniature documentaries, "found recordings" and original works for radio.
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Sat, Dec 5:
4 pm “RATED RSO: THE MUSIC + LYRICS OF RYAN SCOTT OLIVER” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; www.bostoncourt.org; 626-683-6883. MEGAN HILTY of Broadway's “9 to 5” fame, and 2009 Olivier Award Winner LESLI MARGHERITA join multi-award winning composer and lyricist RYAN SCOTT OLIVER to bring sexy school teachers, provocative rent-boys, obsessive homicidal teenagers, and fairy dust to this production, which runs only 3 shows. Fri, Dec 4 at 8 pm, & Sat, Dec 5 at 4 pm & 8 pm. Tix on sale now.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month:
4 pm “CHARITY AUCTION” at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Host Brently Heilbron presides over the event, bringing a good time and money for a variety of charitable causes.
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Sat, Dec 5, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
4-6 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The long-running NPR variety show always features live performances and skits and stories, including the signature monologue “News from Lake Wobegon” by host GARRISON KEILLOR, along with a regular cast of recording artists and guests; it’s broadcast from its home base in Minnesota or various live venues across America. The initial “live” broadcast time every Saturday (3 pm Pacific) is standard most places, though repeat times Sat & Sun vary by station. KCLU (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
5 pm annual “PARADE OF LIGHTS & WINTER FESTIVAL” in Norco, where western music star DAVE STAMEY & wife Melissa are the Grand Marshals. Parade begins at 5 pm, Festival immediately follows Parade, at Nellie Weaver Hall, on Sixth St in Norco. Parade begins at Valley View Av and continues to George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center. In addition to Dave & Melissa, the Honorary Marshals are Bob & Karleen Allen, and Celebrity Marshals are 95.1 FM "Frogmen in the Morning." Event includes the lighted parade, entertainment, Santa, snow, food, and more. For info, call the Norco Dep’t of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, 951-270-5632. More at www.norco.ca.us/depts/parks_recreation_n_community_services/special_events/parade_of_lights_and_winter_festival.asp. Free.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
6-10 pm NATHAN McEUEN BAND with Scott Gates and Chuck Hailes, play a FREE show at DownTown Disney, 1580 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim 92802; 714-300-7800. It’s the Disney resort’s annual chance to access parts of the parks for FREE, do you can do holiday shopping and enjoy part of the special holiday décor. So celebrate and listen to this hot acoustic band play its mix of originals and covers in “a night of instrumental brilliance and vocal magic as the trio weaves their magic in the land of Magic, Downtown Disney.” Scott Gates is the 17-year-old mandolin wunderkind who started playing Disney as a walk-on at 9 years of age. Tonight, he is on stage as a member of Nathan McEuen’s band, and yes, Nathan is the son of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founding member John McEuen. No admission charge, just follow your ears.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month:
6-10:30 pm monthly “PICKIN’ NIGHT” at the Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Beginner’s Jam 6-7:30 pm (main store); Intermediate Jam 6-7:30 pm in their additional space at 17824 Chatsworth St, 2 doors E of the main store; Open Jam 7:30-10:30 pm in main store.
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Sat, Dec 5, 1st Sat, every month; in the OC:
6 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” in Mission Viejo; for location, contact David Borger & Ann Carroll, OrangeCountyHoot@songmakers.org; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat, Dec 5, 1st Sat every month; in Oak Glen:
ON HIATUS: NO SHOW IN DEC ~ 6 pm monthly “HOMETOWN JAMBOREE” show & jam at Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho, in the beautiful hills of Oak Glen above Yucaipa and Beaumont; info & tix, 909-797-1005 or www.losriosrancho.com. They tell us, “Folks can tuck into a tasty meal and enjoy a hand-clappin', knee-slappin', toe-tappin' good time as RILEY'S MOUNTAINEERS and special guest performers pick, fiddle and sing their favorite old-time bluegrass, western, and gospel tunes, as well as a few surprises along the way. Guest musicians are always welcome to tote along an instrument or two and join in the free-wheeling jam after the show. You never know who'll turn up, or what you'll hear next!” No shows in Dec and July. Jamborees start at 6 pm. Advance tix $15 adults, $10 kids age 12 & under.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
6-8 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. The initial “live” broadcast time each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM from 3-5 pm, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere else; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
6:30-10:30 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS CONCERT at Me n’ Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl (at Carson), Lakewood; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS plus JOYCE WOODSON at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; info www.coffeegallery.com; reserv 626-398-7917. Venue impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West 2009 Ambassador Award recipient Bob Stane describes The Tumbling Tumbleweeds as “Singing, dancing and prancing. A nostalgic Western tour de force.”
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What a year it’s been for The Tumbling Tumbleweeds! Since their premiere at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in July 2007 (your editor was there) they have gone on to capture the 2008 Academy of Western Artists’ “Will Rogers Award” for “Western Music Group of the Year” and the Western Music Association’s “Crescendo Award” for “Most Promising Talent,” along with the “Marilyn Tuttle Best in Show Harmony Award!” Their debut album, “The Tumbling Tumbleweeds,” reached #1 on the “Top 10” Cowboy/Western Music Charts and is receiving critical acclaim as well as radio airplay all around the World.
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The Tumbling Tumbleweeds began as a tribute to the Sons of the Pioneers and they continue in their quest to pay homage to that rich musical legacy with a show complete with singing, humor, storytelling and a bit of fancy western footwork. In addition, they write and perform their own original songs in the style of the Sons of the Pioneers. With a blend of western heritage and movie nostalgia they are “Family Entertainment” through and through. The Coffee Gallery Backstage remains a special place to The Tumbling Tumbleweeds for giving the group their first real “break” and they return now to their old Altadena stomping grounds with their special brand of Western musical entertainment bringing some new songs, laughs and plenty more rip roarin’ Western cowboy fun and good times. More at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com
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Plus, JOYCE WOODSON brings her western-tinged original music to the West Coast this weekend, here tonight, and the annual Christmas Concert at the Autry Museum (that’s tomorrow afternoon at 2 pm). Joyce’s warm, rich voice is the perfect companion for her songs written about the West. Bob Stane calls her, “A gifted guitar player and stunning singer - a must-see, since she rarely plays Southern California.” She is touring solo with her two independently-released albums, and she was recently deemed "one of the best singer-songwriters of the year" by Sing Out! Magazine's Rich Warren. More at www.joycewoodson.com
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Joyce Woodson says, “ THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS are my current favorite band - their harmonies make me so happy. A perfect way to celebrate the upcoming new year! Check them out! http://www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com. This club is a favorite spot to play for me. An intimate place that sells out quickly. We've all just come back from the Western Music Association's annual gathering in Albuquerque and we'll have stories to tell!” Tix, $20.
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Sat, Dec 5:
7 pm “COWBOYS AND CAROLS” with the CROSS TOWN COWBOYS at William S. Hart Park and Museum, 24151 Newhall Av, Newhall (Santa Clarita) 91321. Celebrate the Holiday Season and Bill Hart's 145th birthday with an evening of good entertainment, refreshments, and company. Join the CROSS TOWN COWBOYS for a private performance in the beautiful Hart Museum. (Note that the William S. Hart Park and Museum's address has recently changed with a street renaming, from 24151 San Fernando Rd to 24151 Newhall Av, Newhall 91321.) Ticket reservations are required and can be made at 661-254-4584. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
7-9 pm “JUST PLAIN FOLKS ORANGE COUNTY” Group Singing, sponsored by the local chapter of the international Just Plain Folks; for info & loc, go to www.JPFolks.org.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, in Palmdale:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St.West, Suite I, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. Butler's owners, Pam & David Logan, are long-time lovers and supporters of acoustic music. Indeed, Pam is an accomplished musician and a member of the BROWNE SISTERS, Celtic festival favorites who earned a “Listener Favorite” on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The venue serves food and drink, featuring fresh-roasted coffee, in a rich, comfortable setting. Butler's music guy, Kevin Burton Smith, has had great success in attracting excellent acoustic music to Butler's.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, in Temecula:
7 & 9 pm “COUNTRY AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday night, “country band THE RANCH ROCKERS plays current country music to back-up multiple performers in an Opry-style.” Series info & tix, www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. The 9 pm performances feature mature subject matter, so parental discretion is advised at the late show. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Sat, Dec 5, on web radio:
7-8 pm TRISH LESTER is a performing guest on the web radio show, “Relevant Music and Muse,” hosted by Guy Towe, at www.LATalkRadio.com in Southern California. You can hear it at http://latalkradio.com/live.shtml where you’ll need to click the green button. Trish has been a performing guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” If you miss today’s live show, she tells us that you “can catch up later” at http://latalkradio.com/Guy.php
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
7-9 pm “WEST COAST LIVE” hosted by Sedge Thompson is a weekly two-hour public radio program produced in San Francisco, broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show is a nationally-distributed radio variety show performed live in front of a live audience, with author interviews, music, and comedy.
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Sat, Dec 5:
DON VAPPIE & THE CREOLE JAZZ SERENADERS in Beckman Auditorium (Big Beckman), sponsored by Caltech Concerts; parking at 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Show is on the Caltech Campus in Pasadena. You can get the Caltech Folk Music Society discount for tickets to hear this Caltech Campus Programs' show. It’s great Dixieland jazz. See http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-6621.html for a description of that show, and a link to the band’s web site. Tix for this one are available only from the Caltech ticket office.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month:
7:30-11 pm “FIRST SATURDAY CONTRA DANCE” with THE SCREAMING EARWIGS the merry acoustic band of TOM SAUBER, PATRICK SAUBER, STEVE LEWIS, & MIKE SAUBER, playing the 1st-Sat-of-every-month contra dance at the Brentwood Youth House, 731 S Bundy Dr (just S of San Vincente). Instruction at 7:30, dance from 8-11 pm.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month:
7:30-11:30 pm “SANTA MONICA TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC CLUB” at Santa Monica Synagogue, 1448 18th St (corner of 18th & Broadway), Santa Monica. Info, coordinator April Halprin Wayland, 310-376-8760, Aprilstory@aol.com; www.santamonicafolkmusicclub.org.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. Performers have included DAVID SERBY, GRANT LANGSTON, 29 MULES, BOB WOODRUFF, OLD BULL, PSYCHEDELIC COWBOYS, PAUL CHESNE, NICOLE GORDON, and BUCKSWORTH. Parking: 2 hours free with validation from EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. $3 for the third hour; $1 for each additional 20 minutes; $15 max. Addt’l parking at The Grove, next door. Get validation for their structure from Grove merchants. No cover.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel bar, 1401 S Oak Knoll Av, Pasadena; 626-568-3900. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Fri & Sat residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Start time varies; call venue.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm TOM RUSSELL plays McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabesguitar.com.
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"Perhaps the finest American folk-roots artist that most Americans never heard of." - All Music Guide.
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Tom is touring his new CD, a collaboration with Calexico band members, called “Blood and Candle Smoke.”
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“Tom Russell is acclaimed as “an American legend and a true original Troubadour!” He is a genuine classic folk-roots singer-songwriter with a Tex-Mex country soul and Southern Cal roots. Tom Russell is a songwriter in the tradition of the many great southern storytellers. His songs incorporate wit, spirituality, and tales of everyday life and he brings them to life in the form of the blues, ’60s country, folk, and rock. Crooning in his remarkably fearless baritone, his voice is a wonder and a cross between velvet and sandpaper. Most of this songs cut to the bone, alternating between irony, romantic regrets, cynical humor, heartbreak and an occasional scathing critiques of today’s social woes. Tom is accompanied tonight on guitar and vocal harmonies by the multitalented THAD BECKMAN.
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“Tom Russell is the last great American voice. For decades, he has been writing/performing and enriching us with mini works of pure art that make the other so called realists seem Russell-lite. With ‘Blood and Candle Smoke ‘ he has produced his masterpiece…Every song on this pure gold album is a rare treasure.” Ken Bruen (The Dramatist, The Cross etc.)
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Although most identified with the Texas Country music tradition, Tom Russell’s music incorporates elements of folk, Tex-Mex and the cowboy music of the American West. His songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Nanci Griffith, Dave Alvin, Suzy Bogguss and others. In addition to his music, he is a painter of folk art and has published a novel and a book of songwriting quotes.
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Russell grew up in California, graduated from USC with a degree in criminology, and taught school in Nigeria at the time of the Biafran War. He also lived in Spain and Norway and played music at a circus in Puerto Rico. He began his musical career in earnest in the early 1970s in Vancouver, playing strip bars. Later he relocated to Texas and formed a band with singer-pianist Patricia Hardin.
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More at www.tomrussell.com. If you can’t get tix tonight, Tom plays the splendid Ojai Concert Series tomorrow at 7:30 pm. Tix for tonight, $26.50.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND QUARTET plus the CELTIC GOLD ACADEMY DANCERS opening, at the “Live at the Grand Annex” Concert Series at The Grand Annex (a few doors from the Warner Grand Theatre), 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; www.grandvision.org/gallery.shtml.
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SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME have thrilled listeners to radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” with numerous live performances. Folkworks Magazine put Susie Glaze & The Hilonesome Band in their 2008 Top 10 Acoustic Bands in Southern California. They’ve been called “The best in New Bluegrass to Appalachia folks roots fusion,” and this will be an evening of gorgeous eclectic blends of mountain folk and exciting new bluegrass inspired originals, all with the remarkable voice of Susie Glaze. Susie won the “Just Plain Folks” 2006 Music Award for Best Roots Album (with 70,000 people voting, worldwide), after capturing Folkworks Magazine's pick for “Best Bluegrass Album of 2005,” both for her CD, "Blue Eyed Darlin.'"
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Susie's Hilonesome Band is Steve Rankin on mandolin, Rodger Phillips on banjo, Rob Carlson on guitar, and Fred Sanders on bass, showcasing the songwriting of lead guitarist Rob Carlson. The show features songs from the critically-acclaimed new album "Green Kentucky Blues" produced by Laurie Lewis (nominated for the Just Plain Folks 2009 Best Roots Album and four song nominations as well), plus songs from the award-winning "Blue Eyed Darlin'" and selections from her 2002 album "Home On the Hill," along with mountain standards from the Jean Ritchie collection and favorites from Gillian Welch and Lucinda Williams.
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Marvin O'Dell of Classicheartland.com writes: "Susie Glaze does something with a song that only great singers can do...she grabs hold of a song's deepest emotion and purpose and wraps it tightly around your soul" and Bluegrass Unlimited calls her "an important voice on the California Bluegrass scene." "Susie Glaze has one of the most beautiful voices in bluegrass and folk music today. She performs a song straight from her heart and soul." Roz Larman, KPFK's FolkScene. More at www.susieglaze.com. Doors at 7:30 for the best seats, concert at 8 pm. Tix, $15 advance, $20 door.
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm HOUSTON JONES BAND at Russ & Julie's House Concerts in Oak Park, Thousand Oaks / Agoura Hills area. Reservations get directions, at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. This is the premiere house concert series in Southern California, and tonight, they host an excellent band.
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“A wonderful gem of a band…truly exceptional music…wonderful original tunes…some brought tears to our eyes. These guys are a rare treat!” – Billboard.com.
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"No one delivers the goods quite like Houston Jones....Houston Jones remains one of the West Coast's most talented and entertaining bands." - Dirty Linen Magazine.
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Your editor wrote a review of the band in early August for the Live Music Alliance (http://livemusicalliance.wordpress.com). Here it is, with its excerpts from the pre-show write-up in the Guide:
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REVIEW: THE HOUSTON JONES BAND, August 2, 2009, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage. “This evening, I went to see the San Francisco Bay Area-based Houston Jones Band at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena. Now, I’m immediately going to interject something. Wait for the superlatives. I want to share this as it unfolded.
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“Having been among the first radio shows to play their music a few years back, I knew them to be a good Americana band. Their first set tonight was about what I remembered from three or so years ago, when last I saw them perform. I had always found them to be instrumentally solid, quite good, actually, but somewhat deficient in lyrical substance. Had I left tonight’s show at halftime, that's still what I'd think of them.
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“But, during the break, Glen ‘Houston’ Pomianek played a duo mini-set with his son, who turns out to be a fine mandolin player. (The son is not in the band. In fact, he lives in San Diego, and the band has no mando player.) That was when I saw the true virtuosity of Glen ‘Houston’ on the guitar.
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“That interlude mini-set is quite uncommon at the venue, which takes the mid-show break to allow patrons to satiate themselves with excellent coffeehouse fare from ‘out front.’
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“The band returned for the second set, and devoted it, almost entirely, to the originals on their upcoming CD. Wow. Depth, breadth, a spectrum of Americana from blues to bluegrass to Django-style gypsy jazz, with plenty of brilliantly interwoven incorporations of everything from rock anthems to Broadway. No, not some goofy omnibus of soup-to-nuts, because they could. Rather, a set brimming with surprises of fresh motifs woven one into another, and all working so well -- in such inspired arrangements -- that even as you were surprised, you were saying to yourself, ‘of course, THAT works.’
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“Along with that, their lyrical songwriting has taken a quantum leap. One bluegrass gospel original is so good I told the writer to pitch it to Ricky Skaggs. It's perfect for his band and his hardcore gospel audience, and musically far better than 99% of today’s rather one-dimensional mainstream gospel songs. It sounds like a 75-year-old classic.
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“When I wrote the description for the show for this week’s Acoustic Americana Music Guide (http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com), I added, without hesitation, a ‘Show-of-The-Week’ pick notation. In part, that write-up reads, ‘Houston Jones is a high-octane Americana quintet... The band performs a mostly original repertoire that ranges from bluegrass and folk to blues and gospel. Featuring the mile-a-minute flatpicking of guitarist Glenn ‘Houston’ Pomianek (voted ‘best guitarist for 2009’ by the Northern California Bluegrass Society); the band delivers the honky tonk vocals and guitar of Travis Jones; there’s Henry Salvia on keyboard and accordion; Chris Kee on standup bass, cello and acoustic guitar; and, Peter Tucker on drums and percussion. Tonight, they are joined by special guest Chojo Jacques on fiddle and mandolin.’
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“That pre-show write-up continues, ‘It's worth noting that Chojo, Chris, Peter and Glenn are all alumni of the WAYBACKS, and that Houston Jones were voted the ‘best discovery’ of the Fall 2005 Strawberry Music Festival.
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“And it notes, ‘Jim Lee, writing in Dirty Linen Magazine, says ‘No one delivers the goods quite like Houston Jones....Houston Jones remains one of the West Coast's most talented and entertaining bands.’
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“Clearly, there’s reason to expect a lot. So let’s return to tonight’s show.
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“Some may find it odd that they're a five-piece wherein guitarist Jones and drummer Tucker both look like old t-shirted bikers, while Houston and Kee look better, almost like jazz men, in their button shirts. But musically, they play as a tight unit and they thrill a room.
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“At one point tonight, they were playing as three acoustic 6-strings, plus keyboard in piano mode, and their percussionist had detached a cymbal and was strolling through the audience, playing it with a brush. Totally engaging, and each element of that worked to perfection.
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On a personal note, perhaps you can imagine that, as a music journalist, editor, and radio host who often emcees at festivals, I get hit-on all the time with requests to review CDs. While that’s humbling, I don’t often succumb to it, because the time requirements would be overwhelming; so, I must (almost always) try to extricate myself in some hopefully delicate manner. This time, I jumped right in, telling each band member that I want an advance copy of the new CD in time to have my review available when they do their publicity.
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“Even before I received the request for this review, I had already written a friend who operates a venue, telling her, ‘You should book them anytime after the new album is out this fall. There are multiple songs there that should make the Americana Top Ten chart, and win Americana Music Association top awards.’
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“The Houston Jones Band has made a quantum leap, and that will surely be apparent in their soon-to-be released new album. If you get a chance to catch a live show, do it, and request all the new songs you can get them to play.” ~ Larry Wines
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Watch videos of recent performances at Russ and Julie’s:
John Batdorf – “One Night Stands, www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9kvn6NWVjY&fmt=18
Bill & Kate Isles – “Hobos In The Roundhouse” (a “Tied to the Tracks” “Listener Favorite” track), www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO2G1O-sNCk&fmt=18
Stephanie Bettman & Luke Halpin – “Seed Of Doubt,” www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB3pmO5hbJA&fmt=18
Jim Samuelson – “Kananaka/Kahuli Aku,” www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NlEXMOpmFI&fmt=18
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More at www.houseconcerts.us - www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts - http://www.youtube.com/russjuliehousecncrts
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick (previously in our “get tix now” listings):
8 pm BRUCE MOLSKY plays the FolkWorks Concert Series at First Presbyterian Church, 1220 2nd St, Santa Monica 90401; info, www.folkworks.org. It’s a rare opportunity to see BRUCE MOLSKY in a solo concert. Alone or with fellow musicians, guitar, fiddle, or banjo in hand, multi-instrumentalist Bruce Molsky has been exploring traditional music from an astonishingly broad range of cultures over the past two decades. He synthesizes these musical forms and refracts them through his own evolving sensibilities to the point where the sources of his inspiration transform themselves into a sound that is uniquely his. While he is most identified with traditional American old-time music, Molsky’s influences range from the Appalachian soul of Tommy Jarrell to Delta blues, from the haunting modal strains of Irish music to the rhythmically nimble music of Eastern Europe.
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Advance ticket orders to FolkWorks, PO Box 55051, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413. Tix $18 advance, $20 at door. ($15 for FolkWorks members and friends).
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD #7 play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; 310-398-2583; www.boulevardmusic.com. Venue’s web site has a helpful local dining guide. This group of bluegrassers/newgrassers made the final round on national network TV’s “America’s Next Great Band,” and tonight you can see why. More at www.oldnumber7.net
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Sat, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm Inaugural show of the new “WEST VALLEY ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES” at 24424 Vanowen St. West Hills. With DAVE MORRISON, PAUL ZOLLO, JEFF GOLD, and others. Paul Zollo is the renowned author of “Songwriters on Songwriting,” “Conversations with Tom Petty” and more; Jeff Gold is a singer-songwriter-guitarist and a seminal member of the Greenwich Village folk music scene that produced Suzanne Vega, John Gorka, The Roches and other greats. Dave Morrison is a fine songwriter whose works have been recorded by many others for years, and performing with him is Greg Krueger on mandolin, Dobro, and lead guitar.
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$10 admission includes refreshments. Reservations are strongly encouraged at 818 992 4142, as seats are limited.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month:
8-10 pm monthly “JUKE JOINT GANG” show at the venue named in FolkWorks as co-winner for “Best Free (no cover) Acoustic Music Venue,” The Talking Stick, 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. This monthly event is specifically cited as a reason for the venue’s 2008 co-win in FolkWorks. It’s an evening of fine acoustic roots music, with four acts, each playing a 30-min set. Hosted by 2009 Kerrville Folk Festival “New Folk Award” winner ERNEST TROOST, sometimes with LAUREN ADAMS, who have each performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Tonight’s lineup:
ERNEST TROOST at 8 pm, TRACY NEWMAN at 8:30 pm, BETH FITCHET WOOD, STEVE WOOD, & RICHARD STEKOL at 9 pm.
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Both ERNEST TROOST and TRACY NEWMAN have performed live, numerous times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” We haven’t heard the others, but we know that BETH FITCHET WOOD was highly regarded at the recent Folk Alliance FAR West conference. Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches, salads, soup. No cover.
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Sat, Dec 5:
8 pm “RATED RSO: THE MUSIC + LYRICS OF RYAN SCOTT OLIVER” at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; www.bostoncourt.org; 626-683-6883. MEGAN HILTY of Broadway's “9 to 5” fame, and 2009 Olivier Award Winner LESLI MARGHERITA join multi-award winning composer and lyricist RYAN SCOTT OLIVER to bring sexy school teachers, provocative rent-boys, obsessive homicidal teenagers, and fairy dust to this production, which runs only 3 shows. Fri, Dec 4 at 8 pm, & Sat, Dec 5 at 4 pm & 8 pm. Tix on sale now.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com - named for “Best Web Simulcast” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
8 pm THE BOBBY BLUEHOUSE BAND plus a headliner, most Fri & Sat nights, with BBHB opening for “some of the best blues music headliners in the industry,” at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.arcadiabluesclub.com; 626-447-9349. The venue claims, “This is the greatest house band in America. Members over the years have included musicians who have played with Billy Joel, Aretha Franklin, The Pointer Sisters, The Jeff Healey Band and influences from John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison and Eric Burden.” Fri & Sat nights bring local blues bands as well as national acts. Acts booked include Chris Cain, Lil Charlie and the Nite Cats, Coco Montoya, Rod Piazza, James Intveld, Rosie Flores, Duke Robillard, Guitar Shorty, Gary Hoey, Wumbloozo, Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more. Website has lineups for specific dates and a tix link. Venue serves dinner Fri & Sat, 7 pm-2 am.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat every month; in the OC:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” meets in a private home in Mission Viejo. Info, www.songmakers.org/hoots/orange_county_hoot.htm.
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Sat, Dec 5, first Sat, every month:
8 pm monthly “OPEN MIC” at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus, Covina 91723; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. Always on the first Saturday of the month, and just one dollar to get in. Sign-up starts at 7:30, show at 8 pm. They tell us, “If there aren't enough slots for everybody, we'll make a list for the next month, and call you at 7:30. Each act gets two songs or ten minutes, whichever comes first. We'll have desserts and coffee ready. Bring your friends and family and join the show.” $1 cover.
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Sat, Dec 5:
9 pm-1 am WUMBLOOZO brings da blues to Joe's Great American Bar & Grill, 4311 W Magnolia Bl, Burbank 91505; 818-729-0805; www.danceatjoes.com. This band is a lot of fun, owing in part to the presence of HERBIE KATZ, aka “Dr. Fun.” This’ll be a good time.
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Sat Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
9 pm THE PRESTON SMITH SHOW at The Sugarmill Saloon, 18389 Ventura Bl, Tarzana. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz… His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger, July 28 2006, The Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston appeared on "The Tonight Show" along with the late Jimmy Stewart and released an album on Curb Records entitled "Preston Smith." He was featured on the hit movie soundtrack "Cocktail" starring Tom Cruise with the title song "Oh I Love You So," which he composed, produced and performed. The soundtrack went on to sell over six million units foreign and domestically. Roseanne Cash then recorded his song "Black and White," which released as a single, was a hit on the country radio charts, and was included in her Greatest Hits CD that went Gold. He sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed at countless functions for celebrities, including Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono; Bonnie Raitt, Eddie Van Halen and Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others have joined him on-stage for impromptu jam sessions. "You're somethin' else on that guitar, boy." Jerry Lee Lewis.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC & DANCING for listening & dancing at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Check their website for tonight’s performers. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded every Saturday by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, in Temecula:
9 pm “COUNTRY AT THE MERC” music series at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Every Saturday night, “country band THE RANCH ROCKERS plays current country music to back-up multiple performers in an Opry-style.” Series info & tix, www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. There’s an early show at 7 pm, and the 9 pm performances feature mature subject matter, so parental discretion is advised at the late show. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat, on broadcast & web radio:
10 pm-midnight “AMERICAN ROUTES” hosted by Nick Spitzer is a weekly two-hour public radio program produced in New Orleans, broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show presents a broad range of American and Americana music, from blues and jazz, gospel and soul, old-time country and rockabilly, Cajun and zydeco, Tejano and Latin, roots rock and pop, avant-garde and classical. Now in its 9th year on the air, “American Routes explores the shared musical and cultural threads in these American styles and genres of music, and how they are distinguished.”
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Sat, Dec 5, every Sat; on TV:
11 pm-12 am “AUSTIN CITY LIMITS” on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6
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Sunday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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2-5 pm Annual COWBOY CHRISTMAS CONCERT with top western music award winners BELINDA GAIL, and JOYCE WOODSON, plus THE CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND, GENE CULKIN, and other stars of western and cowboy music and cowboy poetry, plus emcee (and Guide editor) LARRY WINES, at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park, L.A..
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7 pm KEN O’MALLEY'S "SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS" at the Santa Monica Playhouse in Santa Monica.
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7 pm TOM RUSSELL plays the Ojai Concert Series in Ojai.
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7:30 pm renowned Scottish fiddler ALASDAIR FRASER with cello virtuoso NATALIE HAAS play the Caltech Folk Music series in Pasadena.
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Plus, two “PICK-OF-THE-WEEK FOR ARTISTS” ~
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2-5 pm AFTERNOON FIDDLE & CELLO WORKSHOP presented by ALISDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS in Sierra Madre; info & reservations, 626-446-2663 or ponyseeker@yahoo.com
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Afternoon “GUITAR CLINIC” with the great CHARLIE HUNTER at McCabe’s in Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4497.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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Local Festivals:
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Sun, Dec 6; Sat & Sun, Dec 5 & 6:
Noon (all day) “FESTIVAL NAVIDENO DE LA CALLE 8 (Ocho)” is a Latino Christmas Festival on 8th Street (Calle Ocho), 8th St & Normandie Av, in Koreatown district, Los Angeles. Attendees will enjoy live musical groups, arts & crafts, foods & beverages, commercial products, carnival rides & games, services and products provided by community & small business, free health screenings, marketing & promotions from all type of exhibitors. More than 75,000 Latinos and Koreans from the surrounded communities usually attend this free Street Fair in a fraternal environment, bringing their children to receive 25,000 free toys and to celebrate the Christmas holidays. Thousand of free samples of a variety of products are usually given in this 8 blocks event. More at www.calleochola.com. Free.
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Sun, Dec 6; Dec 4 through 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
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Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
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Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
5-6 am “CITY ARTS & LECTURES” hosted by Linda Hunt is a weekly public radio program broadcast locally on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. The show BRINGS some of the most celebrated writers, artists, and thinkers of our day as they address contemporary ideas and values, often discussing the creative process. These unique programs offer diverse perspective on literature, criticism, the performing arts, and the way we think about the world we live in today.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
6-10 am “BLUEGRASS ETC.” with producer & host FRANK HOPPE, on KCSN 88.5 FM in L.A., worldwide at www.kcsn.org. Frank’s show has been broadcast for 17+ years, and lately, he’s had live performance-interviews with musical guests. A musician himself, Frank Hoppe knows traditional bluegrass and old time string music forward and backward and everywhere in between.
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Sun, Dec 6, recurring:
8 am-1 pm THE FAIR MARKET BAND performs bluegrass at the Hollywood Farmer's Market, on Ivar St between Hollywood Bl & Sunset Bl (1 block W of Vine), Hollywood. They’re a 5-piece, with guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and bass, playing the standards with conviction, and Cajun, country, and “the spectrum” of Americana roots. The core of the group are brothers Bill & Mike McClellan on fiddle & mandolin, and banjoist Gary Dostalek. They perform within sight of Amoeba Music. Expect to find them playing the entire 5 hours. Free.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast radio & web simulcast:
8 am-noon “PEACE, LOVE & SUNDAY MORNINGS” with veteran deejay Mimi Chen, on 100.3 FM The Sound in L.A., and simulcast everywhere at http://www.thesoundla.com/?nid=41&sid=304. Mimi mixes together the best acoustic, live, reggae, bluegrass, "jam band", and folk performances by Sound artists both new and old. It's music that fits the mellow mood of Sunday mornings in Southern California. The station tells us, “This is a unique opportunity for our listeners to associate with the idealism that grew out of the peace movement in the 1970s. No longer controversial, the core ideals of friendship and togetherness live on - and relate powerfully to new generations of music fans. Tune in and turn on.”
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Sun, Dec 6, recurring:
9 am-1 pm “CLAREMONT FARMER'S MARKET” has live acoustic music in downtown Claremont. RON ELY plays songs of the sea and more on 2nd St between Yale Av and Indian Hill, in old downtown Claremont. Artist’s info, www.myrecordlabel.net/ronely .
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Sun, Dec 6; Sat & Sun, Dec 5 & 6, and Sat & Sun, Dec 12 & 13:
10 am-6 pm “MAGIC MOUNTAIN ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE & FREE PARK ADMISSION” at Magic Mountain, 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia 91355. Entry to Magic Mountain is FREE on Dec 5, 6, 12 & 13 if you bring a new and unwrapped toy valued at $15 or more. Make sure to include the price tag or receipt. Your donation will be distributed by local charities to kids in need during the holidays. The donation is tax-deductible, your good deed helps a child in need, and in return, you get free admission to the amusement park.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Includes free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
10 am-noon (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Show always features live performances and skits and stories, including the signature monologue “News from Lake Wobegon” by host GARRISON KEILLOR, along with a regular cast of recording artists and guests; it’s broadcast from its home base in Minnesota or various live venues across America. The initial “live” broadcast time every Saturday (3 pm Pacific) is standard most places, though repeat times Sat & Sun vary by station. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on web radio:
11 am-1 pm (Pacific time) “COW TRAILS SHOW” from Mancos, Colorado, features live on-air performances by Western music artists hosted by “Western Belle Barb” (Barbara Richhart) on KSJD, simulcast at www.ksjd.org. Studio phone-in numbers for host and on-air guests, 970-564-9727 & 970-564-0808. More, www.myspace.com/mancosbelle
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
Noon-2 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” rebroadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.scpr.org. The long-running NPR variety show always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. The initial “live” broadcast time each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM from 3-5 pm, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere else; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out. (KPCC erroneously claims to be the “exclusive Southern California home” of APHC,” but you can catch it on KCLU at 4 pm Sat & 10 am Sun.)
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
12:30-5 pm “BRUNCH AMERICANA” show, hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff at The Redwood Bar, 316 W 2nd St, downtown L.A. 90012. It’s a four-act musical afternoon. David Serby has played it, and he tells us, “Get there early for great food and drinks. [It’s] live, independent Western Country Music in Los Angeles!”
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun, 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun, Dec 6, 1st Sun, every month:
1-5 pm “1ST SUNDAYS BLUEGRASS JAM” at El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance; first Sun, every month. Bill Elliott 909-678-1180; Ron Walters 310-534-1439.
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Sun, Dec 6, 1st Sun, every month:
1 pm Monthly “CTMS OLD TIME JAM” hosted by the California Traditional Music Society at the Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl (in the park), Encino; 818-817-7756; www.ctmsfolkmusic.org. Free.
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Sun, Dec 6:
Afternoon “GUITAR CLINIC” with the great CHARLIE HUNTER at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4497.
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Sun, Dec 6, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, Dec 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2-5 pm Annual COWBOY CHRISTMAS CONCERT with top western music award winners BELINDA GAIL, and JOYCE WOODSON, plus THE CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND, GENE CULKIN, and other stars of western and cowboy music and cowboy poetry, plus emcee LARRY WINES, at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; www.autrynationalcenter.org; 323-667-2000.
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This show will be recorded for radio AND for TV broadcast!
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BELINDA GAIL is a top western music star, both individually and as the multiple award-winning duo, BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE. Whenever one or both play a Southern Cal concert, it’s a rare delight. Absolute favorites and major stars in the western music genre, both Belinda and Curly have delighted listeners of radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” during their live on-air performances.
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Belinda, solo and with Curly, has won just about everything that recording artists can win as a duo, and individually. Belinda’s solo honors include:
Female Performer of the Year, Western Music Assoc., 1999
Female Vocalist of the Year, Academy of Western Artist ,1999
Female Performer of the Year, Western Music Assoc., 2000, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2008
Western Music Assoc. Traditional Duo/Group with Curly Musgrave, 2005
Academy of Western Artist Female Vocalist of the Year, 2005
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With Curly, the two have won:
Traditional Duo/Group of the Year (WMA) Belinda Gail & Curly Musgrave, 2005, 2006,2008;
Traditional Album of the Year (Western Music Assoc.), “Red Rock Moon,” Belinda Gail & Curly Musgrave, 2007.
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“DUSTY” ROY ROGERS, JR. honored BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE when he said they can be described as “the ROY ROGERS & DALE EVANS of the 21st century.” The two had intended to perform together as today’s headliners, but Curly’s recent emergency brain surgery changed that. Latest reports are that he is doing fine, and hopes to attend(!) Meanwhile, Belinda is such a pro, she is still today’s headliner.
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JOYCE WOODSON brings her warm, rich voice as the perfect companion for her songs written about the West. Coffee Gallery Backstage impresario and Folk Alliance FAR West Ambassador Award honoree Bob Stane calls her, “A gifted guitar player and stunning singer - a must-see, since she rarely plays Southern California.” She is touring solo with her two independently-released albums, and she was recently deemed "one of the best singer-songwriters of the year" by Sing Out! Magazine's Rich Warren. That was AFTER she was named among the “Top Ten Live Acoustic Female Singer-Songwriters in L.A.” of 2008 in FolkWorks, with the following notation: “Joyce Woodson ~ Renowned for her vocal range and songwriting, in 2008 she won “Song of the Year” from the Western Music Association, and the “Will Rogers Best Female Performer of the Year” honors from the Academy of Western Artists. With no Grammy for western music, that, and Joyce, are as good as it gets (www.joycewoodson.com).”
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THE CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND released their first CD this spring. It is a winner, all around. Your editor was privileged to hear the master tracks when the band first heard them. It combines original music in the classic western and western swing styles, along with original cowboy poetry, just as they perform at their live shows. The CD combines their wonderful material with excellent production values. After you hear them today, you’ll want to take them home (their CD, anyway).
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“Tunesmith” GENE CULKIN was the only cowboy singer in Pennsylvania before relocating to Southern Cal. His originals were heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” even before he got here. He is a songwriter of charm and depth, and a fine performer.
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The concert is followed by the annual Western Music Association (WMA) Christmas Party at Viva Fresh Cantina in Burbank, and all concert attendees are invited. Advance concert tix, lindaleegreen@earthlink.net, or comer early and buy at the door. Tix $25 gen’l, $20 WMA mbrs.
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Sun, Dec 6:
2-5 pm AFTERNOON FIDDLE & CELLO WORKSHOP presented by ALISDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS at Ararat Masonic Lodge, 33 E Sierra Madre Bl, Sierra Madre 91024; info & reservations, 626-446-2663 or ponyseeker@yahoo.com. Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas Workshop with emphasis on the tradition and techniques of Scottish fiddle and dance music. The two lead workshops for all string players — violin (fiddle), viola, cello, and bass. Other instrumentalists are also welcome to join in the workshops. Alasdair and Natalie explore playing traditional music in a group, focusing on arrangement ideas as well as the techniques that give traditional music its particular flavor. They look at the elements of language, rhythm and dance, and how to put fiddle tunes together to form a medley or a larger piece of music. Teaching is geared towards intermediate to advanced musicians but enthusiasts of all levels are welcome and encouraged to participate at their level. Participants $35, observers free (space allowing).
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Sun, Dec 6, in Palmdale/Lancaster area:
2-5 pm monthly “AV FOLK MUSIC CLUB SONG CIRCLE” returns for its every-first-Sunday event, always in a private home in Antelope Valley. It often includes a potluck. Call for location and info, 661-722-6276 or toll-free, 877-DES-SONG (877-337-7664).
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Sun, Dec 6, first Sun every month; in Nipomo:
2 pm WILD RIVER RAMBLERS bring bluegrass to Santa Maria Brewing Co, 112 Cuyama Ln (1/2 blk W of the 101), Nipomo; 805-349-2090. Features JULIO BOYSENBERRY on banjo. “2 PM to whenever.”
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
2-5 pm (Pacific) “BLUES SHACK” Hosted by Jim Rondeau on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Show is KCLU's weekly showcase for “the best of the blues, a celebration of the musical innovators who created the genre.”
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Sun, Dec 6, recurring:
3-5:30 pm SHAPE NOTE SINGING in West L.A. Call for location, 310-557-1927.
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Sun, Dec 6, recurring:
3-5:30 pm JAZZ COMPOSERS WORKSHOP at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sunday.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, in Temecula:
3 pm “CLASSICS AT THE MERC” music series featuring violin & piano, at The Mercantile, 42051 Main St, Temecula 92590. Series info, info on artists, and tix, at www.temeculatheater.org. The Merc is one of Temecula's beautifully restored original buildings that now serves as a performance venue, hosting live music four days each week. Gen’l admission, $15; srs/student.military discounts available.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
4-8 pm “SANTA CLARITA VALLEY BLUES SOCIETY MONTHLY JAM” hosted by 21st CENTURY BLUES BAND at The Londoner Pub, 18511 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country (near Santa Clarita) 91351. They tell us, “You never know who will show up. There’s always lots of great music and fun. The Londoner serves up some free food for these Sunday Jams, so come hungry. Don’t forget to bring your instrument - we’d love to hear your music!” More,www.myspace.com/santaclaritavalleybluessociety and www.scvblues.org. All ages, free.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ for listening & dancing at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. (BBQ changed to 5-8 pm, effective July 4.) Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 5, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
5-7 pm “THE MUSIC OF COSMIC STARFISH” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl (at Hudson), Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE (6873); www.cafemusela.com. JEFFREY SNYDER (aka Cosmic Starfish) brings his electro-folk music to Cafe MUSE every Sunday. (Yep, this is electric.) The venue tells us, “Come to the MUSE to hear his truly unique and totally chill astral-pop music... the perfect complement to Sunday dinner, don't you think?” We haven’t been, but their menu of light cuisine is quite good.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
5-8 pm “JAZZ NIGHT” at the Whale and Ale, 327 W 7th St, San Pedro; 310-832-0363; www.whaleandale.com. Different bands every week. No cover.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun; on web radio:
5 pm (Pacific) “MOUNTAIN STAGE,” the long-time NPR roots music show with live performances, hosted by Larry Groce, from the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center in Morgantown, WV. No L.A. broadcast station carries this incredibly popular show (or any other NPR syndicated folk-Americana music or music-performance-interview show) but you can find a simulcast from any of many other stations at www.mountainstage.org or get info at 304-293-SHOW.
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Sun, Dec 6, first Sun every month; in Santa Margarita:
5:30-8:30 pm SANTA MARGARITA JAM (bluegrass & more) at "The Porch" (formerly Solomon's Café), 22322 El Camino Real (Rt 58), Santa Margarita. First 1/2 hour is a free music lesson for anyone getting started; remainder of evening is an open jam for all pickers. Bluegrass / trad / old time oriented. Info, siminoff@siminoff.net.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
6-8 pm CLIFF WAGNER & THE OLD NUMBER 7 play their “Sunday Happy Hour” residency at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl (between Washington & Venice), Culver City 90230; 310-390-1328; music series hotline 310-250-1317; www.myspace.com/thecinemabar. Venue is 21+. No cover, bring $ for the tip jar. You’ve seen them on TV, as final-round finalists on “America’s Next Great Band,” and they made it to #29 on the Americana charts at the close of 2008. Bluegrass-Americana music and drink specials on the West Side. More at www.oldnumber7.net.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on web radio:
6:05 pm (Pacific) “AROUND THE CAMPFIRE WITH ED AND TERRY” on WKUL Country 92.1 FM in North Alabama, simulcast at www.wkul.com is a western music show. Co-host Ed (Eddy) tells us, “a person can learn a lot from a good cow or an old horse.” Uh, okay, Eddy. You can contact him at kudzucowboy@hotmail.com
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Sun, Dec 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm KEN O’MALLEY'S “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH: MEMORIES OF MY IRISH CHRISTMAS” at the Santa Monica Playhouse, Main Stage, 1211 4th St, Santa Monica.
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You’ve heard his authentic and original Irish music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where his album, “Omaille” had its world premiere en-route to global airplay. "O'Malley, from Dublin, is a rare talent." — Sean Canniffe, The Irish Herald, San Francisco. "The star is O'Malley's voice . . . which effortlessly spans the range from sentimental ballads to aggressive Irish folk, rock and everywhere in between." — Dave Soyars, The Irish Herald. "Dust-free and polished to perfection, each song is performed with authenticity, and the care one might use when handling a valuable family heirloom" — Lisa Elaine Scott, Music Connection Magazine. Plenty of public parking nearby. Online ticket sales at www.kenomalley.tix.com; email twlord@sbcglobal.net or call 310-203-1386 for info.
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Sun, Dec 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm HOUSTON JONES BAND at the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue - The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com.
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“A wonderful gem of a band…truly exceptional music…wonderful original tunes…some brought tears to our eyes. These guys are a rare treat!” – Billboard.com.
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"No one delivers the goods quite like Houston Jones....Houston Jones remains one of the West Coast's most talented and entertaining bands." - Dirty Linen Magazine.
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Your editor wrote a review of the band in early August for the Live Music Alliance (http://livemusicalliance.wordpress.com). Here it is, with its excerpts from the pre-show write-up in the Guide:
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REVIEW: THE HOUSTON JONES BAND, August 2, 2009, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage. “This evening, I went to see the San Francisco Bay Area-based Houston Jones Band at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena. Now, I’m immediately going to interject something. Wait for the superlatives. I want to share this as it unfolded.
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“Having been among the first radio shows to play their music a few years back, I knew them to be a good Americana band. Their first set tonight was about what I remembered from three or so years ago, when last I saw them perform. I had always found them to be instrumentally solid, quite good, actually, but somewhat deficient in lyrical substance. Had I left tonight’s show at halftime, that's still what I'd think of them.
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“But, during the break, Glen ‘Houston’ Pomianek played a duo mini-set with his son, who turns out to be a fine mandolin player. (The son is not in the band. In fact, he lives in San Diego, and the band has no mando player.) That was when I saw the true virtuosity of Glen ‘Houston’ on the guitar.
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“That interlude mini-set is quite uncommon at the venue, which takes the mid-show break to allow patrons to satiate themselves with excellent coffeehouse fare from ‘out front.’
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“The band returned for the second set, and devoted it, almost entirely, to the originals on their upcoming CD. Wow. Depth, breadth, a spectrum of Americana from blues to bluegrass to Django-style gypsy jazz, with plenty of brilliantly interwoven incorporations of everything from rock anthems to Broadway. No, not some goofy omnibus of soup-to-nuts, because they could. Rather, a set brimming with surprises of fresh motifs woven one into another, and all working so well -- in such inspired arrangements -- that even as you were surprised, you were saying to yourself, ‘of course, THAT works.’
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“Along with that, their lyrical songwriting has taken a quantum leap. One bluegrass gospel original is so good I told the writer to pitch it to Ricky Skaggs. It's perfect for his band and his hardcore gospel audience, and musically far better than 99% of today’s rather one-dimensional mainstream gospel songs. It sounds like a 75-year-old classic.
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“When I wrote the description for the show for this week’s Acoustic Americana Music Guide (http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com), I added, without hesitation, a ‘Show-of-The-Week’ pick notation. In part, that write-up reads, ‘Houston Jones is a high-octane Americana quintet... The band performs a mostly original repertoire that ranges from bluegrass and folk to blues and gospel. Featuring the mile-a-minute flatpicking of guitarist Glenn ‘Houston’ Pomianek (voted ‘best guitarist for 2009’ by the Northern California Bluegrass Society); the band delivers the honky tonk vocals and guitar of Travis Jones; there’s Henry Salvia on keyboard and accordion; Chris Kee on standup bass, cello and acoustic guitar; and, Peter Tucker on drums and percussion. Tonight, they are joined by special guest Chojo Jacques on fiddle and mandolin.’
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“That pre-show write-up continues, ‘It's worth noting that Chojo, Chris, Peter and Glenn are all alumni of the WAYBACKS, and that Houston Jones were voted the ‘best discovery’ of the Fall 2005 Strawberry Music Festival.
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“And it notes, ‘Jim Lee, writing in Dirty Linen Magazine, says ‘No one delivers the goods quite like Houston Jones....Houston Jones remains one of the West Coast's most talented and entertaining bands.’
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“Clearly, there’s reason to expect a lot. So let’s return to tonight’s show.
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“Some may find it odd that they're a five-piece wherein guitarist Jones and drummer Tucker both look like old t-shirted bikers, while Houston and Kee look better, almost like jazz men, in their button shirts. But musically, they play as a tight unit and they thrill a room.
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“At one point tonight, they were playing as three acoustic 6-strings, plus keyboard in piano mode, and their percussionist had detached a cymbal and was strolling through the audience, playing it with a brush. Totally engaging, and each element of that worked to perfection.
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On a personal note, perhaps you can imagine that, as a music journalist, editor, and radio host who often emcees at festivals, I get hit-on all the time with requests to review CDs. While that’s humbling, I don’t often succumb to it, because the time requirements would be overwhelming; so, I must (almost always) try to extricate myself in some hopefully delicate manner. This time, I jumped right in, telling each band member that I want an advance copy of the new CD in time to have my review available when they do their publicity.
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“Even before I received the request for this review, I had already written a friend who operates a venue, telling her, ‘You should book them anytime after the new album is out this fall. There are multiple songs there that should make the Americana Top Ten chart, and win Americana Music Association top awards.’
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“The Houston Jones Band has made a quantum leap, and that will surely be apparent in their soon-to-be released new album. If you get a chance to catch a live show, do it, and request all the new songs you can get them to play.” ~ Larry Wines
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Tix, $18.
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Sun, Dec 6, in Ojai (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm TOM RUSSELL plays the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E. Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-665-9952; www.ojaiconcertseries.com.
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"Perhaps the finest American folk-roots artist that most Americans never heard of." - All Music Guide.
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Tom is touring his new CD, a collaboration with Calexico band members, called “Blood and Candle Smoke.”
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“Tom Russell is acclaimed as “an American legend and a true original Troubadour!” He is a genuine classic folk-roots singer-songwriter with a Tex-Mex country soul and Southern Cal roots. Tom Russell is a songwriter in the tradition of the many great southern storytellers. His songs incorporate wit, spirituality, and tales of everyday life and he brings them to life in the form of the blues, ’60s country, folk, and rock. Crooning in his remarkably fearless baritone, his voice is a wonder and a cross between velvet and sandpaper. Most of this songs cut to the bone, alternating between irony, romantic regrets, cynical humor, heartbreak and an occasional scathing critiques of today’s social woes. Tom is accompanied tonight on guitar and vocal harmonies by the multitalented THAD BECKMAN.
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“Tom Russell is the last great American voice. For decades, he has been writing/performing and enriching us with mini works of pure art that make the other so called realists seem Russell-lite. With ‘Blood and Candle Smoke ‘ he has produced his masterpiece…Every song on this pure gold album is a rare treasure.” Ken Bruen (The Dramatist, The Cross etc.)
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Although most identified with the Texas Country music tradition, Tom Russell’s music incorporates elements of folk, Tex-Mex and the cowboy music of the American West. His songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Nanci Griffith, Dave Alvin, Suzy Bogguss and others. In addition to his music, he is a painter of folk art and has published a novel and a book of songwriting quotes.
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Russell grew up in California, graduated from USC with a degree in criminology, and taught school in Nigeria at the time of the Biafran War. He also lived in Spain and Norway and played music at a circus in Puerto Rico. He began his musical career in earnest in the early 1970s in Vancouver, playing strip bars. Later he relocated to Texas and formed a band with singer-pianist Patricia Hardin.
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More at www.tomrussell.com and www.ojaiconcertseries.com/index.files/Page1192.htm. This may well sell-out. Tix, $20 advance, $25 at door; Kids under age 15 are 1/2 price at door.
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Sun, Dec 6:
7 pm JACKSH*T plays McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. McCabe’s booker Lincoln Myerson says, “For those who still don't know, the boys from Cochtotan, CA find time between their day jobs of backing up Elvis Costello (Shorty and Pete), and playing gee-tar for the likes of Jackson Browne and the Allman Brothers (Beau) to bring their country-fried musical salvation to the three-one-oh that will melt your mind and free your soul. Seriously. Often famous friends drop in (we've seen Ron Sexsmith, Carlene Carter, Freedy Johnston and actor John C. Reilly share our stage with them), and if we're lucky, the Shithorns might come down to help out the boys with a brass section on a few numbers. We can't recommend this show highly enough and we'll think you a fool for missing it. So don't!” Tix, $15.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
7-8 pm JES HUDAK plays her weekly residency at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). JES HUDAK is a singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. Her weapons of choice are the piano and her voice, and she has been known to wield a guitar from time to time. Her live performance “takes her audience on a journey through laughter and love and sadness and heartbreak. Her voice is powerful and soulful, and her songs are original, emotional, and real.” Artist info, www.jes-hudak.com and www.myspace.com/jeshudak
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
7 pm PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP WITH MARC PLATT at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member in advance to gain entry. Limit 10 performers per week. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/workshop.shtml. Each week's workshop is $20, with all proceeds to the venue.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on radio and web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” is a long-running folk music show from Los Angeles, hosted by ROZ LARMAN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 FM in Santa Barbara, and simulcast at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live, with a guest recording artist. The show celebrated its 37th year on the air in February 2008. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on web radio:
7 pm “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by DAVE STRAUSS, features live on-air performance-interviews at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live web-only show focused on Los Angeles-based songwriters of all genres, but the live segment is generally an acoustic performance.
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Sun, Dec 6:
JIM CURRY’S “JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE” CONCERT at the Grove Theater in Upland, CA. Jim tells us, “The highlight of the summer for me was our concert at Dana Point. There were more than 3,000 people in attendance, and the audience entertained us with their dancing. Children danced with each other, parents danced with their kids, and at the end of the concert a Conga line formed to the song ‘Poems, Prayers and Promises.’”
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Get show time and venue info at www.jimcurrymusic.com
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Sun, Dec 6; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm renowned Scottish fiddler ALASDAIR FRASER with cello virtuoso NATALIE HAAS play the Caltech Folk Music series at Beckman Institute Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). You’ve heard their music on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Series bookers Rex and Nick tell us, “Their most recent CD, ‘In the Moment,’ is a beautiful work, and this show will be something very special. They have performed frequently in Europe and throughout the U.S. and Canada. They have been featured on NPR's Performance Today, the Thistle and Shamrock, and Mountain Stage radio programs.” More at Alasdair's website, http://alasdairfraser.com.
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Alasdair Fraser, Scottish fiddler extraordinaire, and Natalie Haas on cello, are popular at festivals everywhere. Alasdair, now living in the Sierra Nevada foothills, has been solidly embraced in his adopted country. He performs solo, as well as with groups as diverse as the Los Angeles Master Chorale, The Waterboys and The Chieftains, and as a featured soloist along with Itzhak Perlman at New York's Lincoln Center. Acclaimed by the San Francisco Examiner as "the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling," Alasdair has a concert and recording spanning 30 years, with a long list of awards, accolades, television credits, and features in top movie soundtracks (including Last of the Mohicans and Titanic.
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Natalie Hass started out as a student of Alasdair's at age 11, and they began performing together when she was 15. She adds a "percussive power to Alasdair's fiddle fireworks, providing syncopated, bowed underpinnings to his melodies and solos," according to Kira Schlecter, of The Patriot News. They have two fine recordings together, In the Moment and Fire and Grace. Note that this is a rare Sunday show for this series. Tix, $20 gen’l, $5 for Caltech students or children, are selling briskly.
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Sun, Dec 6:
8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” series continues every first, third and occasional fifth Sunday of the month in 2009, at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern Cal, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain.
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Upcoming date (always on Sundays at 8 pm): Dec 20.
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Tix $30; secure, on-site parking is $5.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun:
9 pm “RUSTY SUNDAYS” weekly showcase of “L.A.’s best up-and-coming rock, country, blues and folk music acts, on the Wild-West side” at Rusty’s Surf Ranch, 256 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 90401. Musical hosts are MATT OWENS & THE GOLDEN WEST, plus another act or two. $3 cover.
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Sun, Dec 6, every Sun, on broadcast & web radio:
10-11 pm “ETOWN” hosted by Nick Forster on KCLU from Thousand Oaks, 88.3 FM in West SFV & Ventura County, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM in Santa Barbara; web simulcast at www.kclu.org. Heard from coast to coast on NPR, commercial, and community stations, etown's mission is “to educate, entertain and inspire a diverse audience, through music and conversation, to create a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable world. Like old-time radio variety shows, every etown show is taped in front of a live audience and features performances from many of today's top musical artists as well as conversation and information about our communities and our environment.”
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 7
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Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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7:30 pm WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY with special guests ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL, at the Majestic Fox Theater in Bakersfield.
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8 pm-1 am “RONNIE MACK'S BARN DANCE” with a full lineup of guest performers and THE BARNDANCE BAND at Joe’s Great American Bar & Grill in Burbank.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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Local Festivals:
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Mon, Dec 7; Dec 4–Dec 30:
5-10 pm (Light Display Hours) 15th annual “LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER GRIFFITH PARK LIGHT FESTIVAL” on Crystal Springs Drive, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This year’s annual event has nights for pedestrians and bicycles, horseback riders, and more, in addition to the run of nights when only cars make the trip to view the park’s annual light displays. Come see this magnificent display of lights that’s been a tradition for 13 years.
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Schedule for what conveyances are allowed when (including your feet):
> Dec 4-17 are “Vehicle Free Nights,” no cars allowed - you can walk, jog, run, bike, stroll, crawl…anything, except drive.
> Dec 9-30 on Mon, Tue, Wed, & Thurs only - “Horse Enthusiasts” nights, when you can see the lights on horseback.
> Dec 18-30: “Drive through” nights to see the Griffith Park Festival of lights from the comforts of your warm car.
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Exit the Golden State Fwy (I-5) at Los Feliz. Go west on Los Feliz and turn right onto Crystal Springs Dr. Proceed to the entrance of the Light Festival. To view the Light Festival by foot on the walking path, park at the L.A. Zoo’s big parking lot. More info at www.ladwp.com. Free.
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“Out-of-Town” Events:
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Mon, Dec 7, in Bakersfield; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY with special guests ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL, at the Majestic Fox Theater in Bakersfield; tix & info, www.goldenvoice.com - www.myspace.com/goldenvoice. Tix, $59.50, $68.50.
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LOS ANGELES AREA acoustic music performances:
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon, on web radio:
Noon-12:30 pm “GUNSLINGER RADIO SHOW” with host Cowboy Hud and performing guests on web radio KSGV, Glendora, at http://ksgvradio.com.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon; on radio & web simulcast:
1-4 pm “BUFFALO BAYOU” radio show hosted by Jake Bacon on KUCI, simulcast at http://www.kuci.org. Sometimes with live performances. It’s “a swamp pop, Cajun, Zydeco, and all things bayou sonic gumbo laced with international flavorings and a wild attitude, cooked up, and served live to the world on the web and on itunes, and at 88.9 FM in Irvine since 2003. In addition to the KUCI webstream, the show is live on myspace at www.myspace.com/jakebacon889.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals, and he composed a film score for a movie due out soon. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, Dec 7, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676. Check with venue for tonight’s start time.
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Mon, Dec 7, 1st Mon, every month:
7:30-9 pm “LAMN JAM” at The Scene, 806 E Colorado St (x-st Everett), Glendale 91205; 818-241-7029. L.A. Music Network Jam is billed as a place where “artists, musicians, singers and songwriters play for the pros.” Only LAMN Members perform by registering at 818-769-6095 or tara@lamn.com. Info: www.lamn.com. Performers receive constructive criticism in the areas of music, lyrics and performance. No cover.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. This is named as the “Best Acoustic Open Mic” in L.A. AND the “Best Web Simulcast,” in “The Best of 2008 / Top Ten” in FolkWorks, at www.folkworks.org/content/view/35788/166. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Hosted by LISA TURNER. Sign-ups 7-7:15 pm, show at 7:30 pm. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Dec 7, 1st Mon, every month; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm-1 am “RONNIE MACK'S BARN DANCE” with a full lineup of guest performers and THE BARNDANCE BAND has MOVED to Monday’s and is now at Joe’s Great American Bar & Grill (at the old Crazy Jack’s), 4311 W Magnolia Bl (between Cahuenga Bl & Pass Av), Burbank; 818-729-0905; venue info, www.danceatjoes.com/barndance; series info, www.myspace.com/421889964. Since 1988, Ronnie Mack has marshaled forward the Los Angeles roots and alt country scene with his once-a-month Ronnie Mack's Barn Dance. It’s simply amazing who has played the series. In 2003, Jim Hollander filmed his documentary, "First Tuesdays at Ronnie Mack's Barndance," featuring performances and interviews with series alumni Dwight Yoakam, Dave Alvin, Rosie Flores, Big Sandy, James Intveld, Mike Stinson and more. It’s available at www.hollandermedia.com. In addition to each month’s lineup of guest performers, there’s always the BARN DANCE BAND. That brings Ronnie Mack on lead vocals & rhythm guitar (with a lead here & there), Skip Edwards on the keys, Marty Rifkin on Pedal Steel, Harry Orlove on lead guitar, Paul Marshall (I See Hawks in L.A.) on bass, Dave Raven on drums (or on occasion John Palmer). More on Ronnie Mack and his legendary Barn Dance at www.electricearl.com/BDance.html
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 7717 S Western Av (78th & Western), L.A. 90047; 323-759-2020; www.mdears.com. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND for listening & dancing at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by Gordon Gilges at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, ”There's a piano & guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you. Bring your music, your own instruments, your friends!” Sign-ups are at 8 pm. Comedy is now from 7:30-8:30 pm, with those sign-ups at 7:30 pm. They add, “We are trying to create a community of artists who support each other, so participants are encouraged to come early and stay as long as you can to show the love to your fellow open-mic-ers. You may even get to go up a second time. The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.”
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
9-11:30 pm "IRISH MUSIC SESSION" weekly at Celtic Arts Center’s new shared location, Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Schedule every Mon is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
9:30 pm “JJ SONG SALON” weekly singer-songwriter night at Life on Wilshire, 6311 Wilshire Bl, L.A. 90048; 323-651-5433; www.lifeonwilshire.com. Grammy award winning producer JOHN JONES (Fleetwood Mac, Duran Duran, Celine Dion) is the “JJ” who assembles an eclectic mix of performers for an evening of live acoustic entertainment. Complete list, with links, for this week’s performers at www.jjsongsalon.com. Each plays a short set, beginning at 9:30 pm. Dinner seating available starting at 6:30 pm.
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
9:30 pm Weekly “SINGER SONGWRITER EVENING” hosted by PRESTON SMITH (Preston Smith & the Crocodiles) at Lucy's 51, 10149 Riverside Dr (just E of Cahuenga, at Forman), Toulca Lake. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger, The Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, Dec 7, every Mon:
10:30 pm “BLUES JAM” with MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at Babe's and Ricky's Inn, 4339 Leimert Bl, L.A.; 323-295-9112; www.bluesbar.com.. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. Event info, Info, info@bluesbar.com. No cover.
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EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / BUY TIX NOW (updated Dec 4)
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HEADS-UP – GET TIX WHILE YOU CAN!
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Tue, Dec 8 (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY with special guests ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL, at Club Nokia, downtown L.A. Doors at 7 pm; tix & info, www.goldenvoice.com - www.myspace.com/goldenvoice. Tix, $45, $65, $125.
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Wed, Dec 9 (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY with special guests ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL, at the Fred Kavli Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Countrywide Performing Arts Center, 2100 E Thousand Oaks Bl., Thousand Oaks. Doors at 7 pm; tix & info, www.goldenvoice.com - www.myspace.com/goldenvoice. Tix, $65, $75, $85.
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Fri, Dec 11 (Get tix now); a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm JOHN GORKA plays the kick-off concert, with DAVE MORRISON opening, as Folk Music Returns to Neighborhood Church, 301 N Orange Grove Bl, Pasadena. Fondly remembered as the home venue for the long-running series that ended with the death of its founder, Ron Stockfleth.
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It’s an appropriate return, since no less than Rolling Stone Magazine calls JOHN GORKA “The preeminent male singer-songwriter of the New Folk Movement.”
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For many years, Neighborhood Church was known nationally for monthly folk concerts featuring a wide variety of prominent artists. In response to the growing interest in music “by the people for the people,” original acoustic music is returning to the Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church.
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John Gorka is the ideal artist to kick off the rebirth of the famous venue. Gorka is a master storyteller known for the emotional depth, intelligence and power of his beautiful songs. His latest CD is due for release just before the concert. John will be accompanied by special guest Dave Morrison, a local singer-songwriter and long-time leader in the Pasadena / Altadena and Southern Cal folk scene.
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Tix available soon. Mark your calendar.
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Sat, Dec 12 & Sun, Dec 13, in Monterey, CA:
Annual “MONTEREY COWBOY POETRY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” at the Monterey Conference Center, Monterey, CA. As always, this fine indoor festival has a wonderful lineup, with DON EDWARDS, DAVE STAMEY, LACY J. DALTON, HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN, THE SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN, LAURIE LEWIS & TOM ROZUM, and others. And in case you’re wondering about the bluegrassers in that lineup, Laurie Lewis tells us, “Tom and Laurie WILL NOT be performing Cowboy Music or reciting Cowboy Poetry here. We'll be playing music that bridges the gap between old-time, bluegrass and cowboy.” More at www.montereycowboy.org
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Sat, Dec 19 (Get tix now):
8 pm “HOLIDAY SWING” is the season’s offering by the GOLDEN STATE POPS ORCHESTRA with legendary jazz and blues artist BARBARA MORRISON, at the Warner Grand Performance Space, historic Warner Grand Theater, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; 310-833-4813; www.grandvision.org. Barbara Morrison Join GSPO for a little holiday cheer – GSPO Big Band style! Jazz and Blues legend Barbara Morrison will be rocking the house and ringing in the holidays! Who knows – it might snow?
Returning to the Warner Grand stage after a three year absence - the gifted Ms. Morrison is fresh off a 33 US City tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for The Wizard of Oz). Barbara now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual "who's who" of the Jazz and the Blues worlds. More at www.gspo.com and www.barbaramorrison.com.
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Tue, Dec 22 (Get tix now):
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; 213-972-7211; www.musiccenter.org.
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Wed, Dec 23 (Get tix now):
THE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND plays the Walt Disney Concert Hall, L.A. Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, L.A. (downtown) 90012; 213-972-7211; www.musiccenter.org.
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Thu, Dec 31 (Get tix now):
8 pm SLIGO RAGS play the NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY for the Ojai Concert Series at the Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; info & tix at 805-665-8852 or www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Ring in the New Year with a wild Celtic concert, then waltzing till 12:30 am. Bring the family, bring all your friends and help ring in the New Year with a wild, fun Celtic concert featuring the return of Sligo Rags, 8-11 pm, then enjoy elegant and romantic waltzes to a live band until 12:30 in the morning.
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When Sligo Rags performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” for St. Patrick’s Day in 2007, EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were theirs, and no other artist or band repeated anywhere in that chart’s Top 100. They are an energetic Celtic / bluegrass fusion band and two-time winner of the Orange County Music Awards for Best Folk Band. This ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, Sligo Rags is taking the national Celtic music scene by storm.
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"Sligo Rags have mastered the ability to take songs from a time gone by and make them fresh and relevant for a modern audience. Their passion for the music and their willingness to take risks combine for an outstanding live show." - Music Connection. The hosts tell us, “This is going to be a potluck party, so bring a tray of finger food and we'll supply the party favors and the bubbly.” Tix, $20 before Dec 1, thereafter $25 advance, $30 at door if any remain.
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2010 events…
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Sat, Jan 16, 2010 (advance word; plan now):
13th annual “COWBOY POETRY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” at The Empty Saddle Club, 39 Empty Saddle Rd, Rolling Hills Estates. Includes the CALIFORNIA COWBOY BAND and at 7 pm the CROSS TOWN COWBOYS. More when we know it.
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Fri, Feb 19, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm AN EVENING WITH RANDY NEWMAN at UCLA Live in Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. The promo calls him, “America’s premiere musical fabulist,” and Randy Newman has maintained a remarkable balance of trenchant vignettes, exaggerated outrage and, especially in his film work, earnest sentiment. His latest album, “Harps and Angels,” employs sardonic wit and self-deprecation on a level worthy of Mark Twain. And Newman’s wry classics, including “Political Science,” “I Love L.A.,” and his much-played during the aftermath of Katrina, “Louisiana 1927,” have only grown in relevance with time. But Newman shines most brightly in his rare concert appearances, where his mischievous presence complements his musical and storytelling talents. Tix, $65, $50, $40; UCLA students $15.
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Mar 20 - 28, 2010 (reserve now):
IRELAND TOUR – tour the Emerald Isle, led by Irish musician KEN O'MALLEY - highlights include Dublin, Donegal, Westport, Achill Island, Connemara, Galway, Aran Islands, the Burren, and the Cliffs of Moher. SPACE IS LIMITED - the full itinerary is available at www.kenomalley.com (click on Travel to Ireland with Ken O'Malley in the upper right corner of the home page).
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Fri, Apr 16, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm ARLO GUTHRIE & THE GUTHRIE FAMILY RIDES AGAIN at UCLA Live in Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A. UCLA ticket office: 310-825-2101 or www.uclalive.org. Four generations of what Vanity Fair rightly called “the first family of American folk” gather to revive the musical spirit of late patriarch Woody Guthrie. Led by Woody’s son Arlo, a star in his own right, “The Guthrie Family Rides Again” continues the clan’s tradition of sharing its music far and wide. Joining-in are Arlo’s son Abe, who has accompanied his father on keyboards and vocals since the 1980s, daughters Cathy and Annie, and Sarah Lee Guthrie with her husband Johnny Irion - one of the most acclaimed folk-rock duos of the last decade - and various grandkids. The elder generation is represented by Woody’s songs, both the classics and “new” compositions using lyrics uncovered in the Guthrie archives. Tix, $58, $42, $28; UCLA students $15.
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Fri, Apr 16, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm MARK KNOPFLER at the Pantages Theatre; 6233 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028. Nederlander is offering a free copy of his CD, “Get Lucky,” with every pair of tix bought online at www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004329CBC65F34?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned
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Sat, Apr 17, 2010 (Get tix now):
8 pm MARK KNOPFLER has added a second show (he’s here Apr 16 & 17) at the Pantages Theater, 6233 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028. Nederlander is offering a free copy of his CD, “Get Lucky,” with every pair of tix bought online at www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B004329CBC65F34?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1&brand=nederlanderla&camefrom=cfc_ndrcon_ned. Tix for everyone else, www.ticketmaster.com/event/0B00432E988955AC?artistid=769953&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1.
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Sat & Sun, Apr 24 & 25, 2010 (Get tix now, at a BIG discount):
“STAGECOACH: CALIFORNIA’S COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL“ with Nashville big names and LOTS of wonderful roots-Americana artists, returns to Empire Polo Club in Indio.
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Announced so far: MERLE HAGGARD, THE AVETT BROTHERS, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, BAXTER BLACK, STEEL DRIVERS, BJ THOMAS, BOBBY BARE, CHUCK MEAD, MARY GAUTHIER, LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS, BILL ANDERSON, WADDIE MITCHELL & TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, PHIL VASSAR, CARLENE CARTER;
Plus “Mane Stage” Nashville acts:
Keith Urban, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn, Sugarland, Billy Currington, Gary Allan, The Oak Ridge Boys;
And:
Jamey Johnson, Ray Price, Joey + Rory, Nick 13, Easton Corbin, Heidi Newfield, and Mallary Hope.
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Weekend passes $99 (limited time, early-bird advance purchase), $499, $799; single day, $79.
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May 12-16, 2010; on the US West Coast (Get tix now):
“SCOTTISH FIDDLE TRAIN” with ALISDAIR FRASER & NATALIE HAAS is a beautiful coastal train trip from California to Oregon and back. Join Alasdair & Natalie Haas and special guests involving fiddles, pipes and whisky tasting, on an unforgettable musical journey on board vintage private railroad cars from Los Angeles and the Bay Area to Portland and return, May 12-16, 2010. Be one of just 57 travelers on this journey along the coast, tracing the historic El Camino Real, then through the Central Valley to Sacramento, past Mount Shasta and over the Cascade Mountains on one of the most scenically spectacular rail routes in North America. Sign up today with Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net, or 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Full details at www.rootsontherails.com.
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Tix go on sale Mon, Nov 23, 10 am:
Fri, May 14, 2010:
7:30 pm CAROLE KING & JAMES TAYLOR together again at the Hollywood Bowl. They performed together at the Troubadour in the ‘70s and bring that rich history and music to this historic L.A. reunion. Tix at www.ticketmaster.com/Carole-King-James-Taylor-Troubadour-Reunion-tickets/artist/1384600?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name
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Sun, May 16, 2010 (advance notice, so you can plan):
50th annual “TOPANGA BANJO-FIDDLE CONTEST” at Paramount Ranch, Agoura Hills; www.topangabanjofiddle.org; Hotline: 818-382-4819. We’ll bring you info on registration for all the competitions when we have it, along with the list of featured acts playing the several stages. This is a must-attend event, that’s always the best one-day acoustic music festival in Southern Cal. And, since it’s celebrating the major milestone of haqlf-a-century, we expect an event that will be VERY impressive, indeed.
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Jul 30-Aug 1, 2010; an EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK for ARTISTS:
“2010 NATIONAL STORYTELLING NETWORK CONFERENCE” in Los Angeles is the 5th annual conference. If the website information doesn't answer any questions you might have, contact Steven Henegar, Monologist & Storyteller, Truth & Lies Productions (www.stevenhenegar.net), at shenegar@sbcglobal.net - 714-662-5503 or 800-598-1852.
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Includes the annual “FRINGE FESTIVAL” with numerous 55 minute sets of “compelling, risky, experimental, and work-in-progress storytelling, with folktales, autobiography, performance art, stand-up, puppetry, dance and favorite long form stories.”
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Steven Henegar tells us, “Growing networks of performance venues all over the world have adopted this model and many storytellers are taking advantage of these venues to reach new audiences. The Conference Fringe encourages more storytellers to participate in American and Canadian Fringe Festivals by providing the opportunity for you to experience many aspects of a typical Fringe Festival including the selection process and performance framework.” More at www.storynet.org/conference/fringe.html
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MORE STUFF >>>>>>> News, Resources, etc…
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Updated editions with more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it), and all the many, many, acoustic music events still to come in NOVEMBER and beyond - in and around Los Angeles, plus RADIO SHOWS with live performances of acoustic music available on the web, plus the many acoustic music FESTIVALS, near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere! It’ll all be here, soon.
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Our FEATURE STORY: ‘Grammy Awards Add American Roots Category,’ our recent news feature, is at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/grammy-awards-add-american-roots.html
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In FOLKWORKS: you can check out Larry Wines’ most recent column, available free online at www.folkworks.org/content/viewcategorycur/89. It’s a time of remembrances for the late musicians MIKE SEEGER and DAVID CARRADINE, and for WOODY GUTHRIE’S guitar.
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Our REVIEWs:
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(1) WPA (Works Progress Administration) superstar band – you can read JOEL OKIDA’s review for the Guide of their Oct 6 show at Largo in L.A.; it’s at www.nodepression.com/profiles/blogs/review-of-wpa-works-progress or at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/review-of-wpa-works-progress.html
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(2) BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY that virtuosic ensemble from the Centennial State, is reviewed by JOEL OKIDA at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/11/review-boulder-acoustic-society-getting.html)
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RADIO NEWS: the return from hiatus of the syndicated TIED TO THE TRACKS radio show is delayed, due to the producer / host’s ongoing recovery from eye surgery. (At least he has time to listen to all those submitted CDs that arrive daily!) We’ll keep you posted.
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NEED TO KNOW MORE about the GUIDE and its companion, THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS,
or
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR GIG FOR INCLUSION?
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Our “stuff ya wanna know “ (FAQs) page is available at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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The editor is gradually readapting to the computer following his eye surgery, and seems to be able to read, even if he sees everything like it’s in a funhouse mirror…
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WANT TO HELP keep the Guide going? Go to http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
to find out HOW!
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THE LATEST EDITION OF THE GUIDE, the News, coverage of the recent Folk Alliance FAR West Conference, and more, is available 24/7 (and frequently updated!) at ~
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2009, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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